Kenny Dorham, born McKinley Howard Dorham on August 30, 1924 in Fairfield, Texas, was an American jazz trumpeter, singer, and composer who made a significant impact on the bebop and hard bop scenes. His career spanned over three decades, beginning in the mid-1940s, where he played alongside the era's jazz giants, including Billy Eckstine's big band featuring future stars such as Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker. Dorham then succeeded Gillespie in Parker's quintet and went on to work with other notable figures such as Max Roach and Art Blakey.

Known for his warm, round tone and sophisticated harmonic sensibilities, Kenny Dorham was an integral figure in the development of modern jazz. Not only did he contribute as a sideman, but he also made a name for himself as a bandleader and composer, with works such as "Blue Bossa," which has become a jazz standard. Dorham's albums, including "Afro-Cuban," highlight his exploration of Latin jazz fusion, while records like "Quiet Kenny" and "Whistle Stop" exhibit his lyrical playing and compositional prowess. Despite his talents, he has often been described as one of the most underrated musicians of his time. Kenny Dorham's artistry continued to shape the jazz landscape until his passing on December 5, 1972. His recordings remain vital to the jazz canon, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.

Genres

Bebop

Hard Bop

Jazz

Jazz Trumpet

Related Artists

Chet Baker

Miles Davis

Clifford Brown

Lee Morgan

Freddie Hubbard

Art Blakey

Horace Silver

John Coltrane

Blue Mitchell

Cannonball Adderley

Dizzy Gillespie

Donald Byrd

Latest Release

Afro-Cuban (Rudy Van Gelder Edition)

Kenny Dorham

Album - 9 Tracks - Released January 1, 2007