William Geary "Bunk" Johnson was an influential New Orleans jazz trumpeter, known for his expressive style and for being a key figure in the traditional jazz revival of the 1940s. Born around 1879 or 1889 in New Iberia, Louisiana, Johnson's early life was steeped in the birthplace of jazz, and by his teenage years, he was playing professionally. Johnson's career encompassed playing with the likes of Buddy Bolden, considered one of the earliest pioneers of jazz, but critical details about his early career are often shrouded in myth. His career faltered in the 1930s due to poor health and personal problems, leading to a period where he did not play professionally.

However, his fortunes changed in the 1940s when a resurgence of interest in traditional New Orleans-style jazz emerged. Johnson was "rediscovered" and became a centerpiece of the revival movement. With a new set of teeth and a freshly gifted trumpet, Bunk Johnson was able to resume his career, making numerous recordings and performing widely up until his health started declining again. His musical output from this era, such as "Bunk Up! The Mean, Smokin' Dixie of Bunk Johnson" and "High Society - New York City 1945," showcased his command of the classic jazz sound. Johnson's emphasize on ensemble playing and the crafting of melodic, heartfelt solos made him a respected figure in the preservation of the early jazz spirit. His legacy is marked by a poignant blend of legendary early jazz affiliations and the crucial role he played in the music's mid-century revival before his death in July 1949.

Genres

Jazz Trumpet

New Orleans Jazz

Latest Release

Bunk Up! The Mean, Smokin' Dixie of Bunk Johnson

Bunk Johnson

Album - 10 Tracks - Released October 27, 2023