Mezz Mezzrow

Mezz Mezzrow was a fascinating character in the jazz world, a clarinettist and saxophonist who fully immersed himself in the music and culture he loved. Born Milton Mesirow, he reinvented himself as Mezz Mezzrow, embracing African American culture and dedicating his life to playing and promoting traditional New Orleans jazz. He was a champion of Black musicians, often collaborating with and featuring them in his bands, even during the heavily segregated era of the 1920s and 30s. He played alongside legends like Sidney Bechet and Tommy Ladnier, and his passionate, sometimes controversial, approach to music made him a unique figure in jazz history.

Beyond his music, Mezzrow was also known for his autobiography, "Really the Blues," a vivid and sometimes gritty account of his life immersed in the jazz scene and his experiences with drug use and incarceration. While his personal life was complex, his dedication to jazz was unwavering. He ran a record label, organized concerts, and even opened a marijuana cigarette shop in Harlem. Mezz Mezzrow's story is a complicated but compelling one, showcasing a man deeply committed to the music he cherished.

Genres

Swing Music

Jazz

Ragtime

Latest Release

Mezz Mezzrow and His Band

Mezz Mezzrow

Album - 8 Tracks - Released December 20, 2024