William James "Count" Basie was one of the most illustrious figures in jazz history, renowned for his impeccable sense of swing and his leadership as a bandleader. Born on August 21, 1904, in Red Bank, New Jersey, Basie cut his teeth as a musician in the vibrant jazz scene of 1920s Harlem. He honed his craft accompanying vaudeville acts before eventually moving to Kansas City, where he became a central figure in the city's robust, blues-infused jazz culture. Basie's signature style blended the structured approach of big band music with the improvisational elements of Kansas City jazz, thereby cementing his unique sound that would influence generations of musicians.

In 1935, Count Basie formed his own ensemble, the Count Basie Orchestra, which quickly gained fame for its energetic performances and hit recordings, such as "One O'Clock Jump" and "Jumpin' at the Woodside." The orchestra became a platform for many jazz legends including Lester Young, who were able to showcase their considerable talents. Under Basie's leadership, the band was well-loved for their lively stage shows and became a symbol of the Swing Era. Count Basie's music continued to evolve over the decades, seamlessly incorporating elements of bebop and fusion into his arrangements. His career was decorated with numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and international acclaim. Even after Basie's death in August 1984, his legacy endures through the timeless recordings he left behind, and his orchestra continues to perform to this day, a testament to the enduring appeal of his swinging grooves.

Genres

Big Band

Harlem Renaissance

Jazz

Jazz Piano

Swing

Vocal Jazz

Related Artists

Duke Ellington

Ella Fitzgerald

Louis Armstrong

Benny Goodman

Lionel Hampton

Oscar Peterson

Nat King Cole

Artie Shaw

Dizzy Gillespie

Ray Charles

Billie Holiday

Glenn Miller

Latest Release

Count Basie Meets Jimmy Rushing

Count Basie•

Jimmy Rushing

Album - 19 Tracks - Released January 17, 2024