Johnny Griffin, renowned in the jazz world as "The Little Giant" for his diminutive stature juxtaposed with his formidable tenor saxophone prowess, was an influential artist in the sphere of bebop and hard bop. Born John Arnold Griffin III on April 24, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, his musical journey began early, and by the age of 12, Griffin was already playing music competitively. Demonstrating a prodigious talent for the saxophone, he attended DuSable High School, where he was taught by the esteemed Captain Walter Dyett.

Griffin's professional career took off when he joined Lionel Hampton’s orchestra in the late 1940s. Throughout the 1950s, he played with notable musicians such as Art Blakey and Thelonious Monk, and he became known for his blisteringly fast playing and rich, vigorous tone. His solo career saw the release of albums like "A Blowin' Session" featuring fellow saxophonists John Coltrane and Hank Mobley. After moving to Europe in the early 1960s, Griffin continued to perform and record prolifically, creating an extensive catalogue that showcases his exceptional skills and contributions to the jazz genre. Despite facing the challenges of the changing music industry and moving away from the US, he maintained a respected presence in jazz circles until his passing on July 25, 2008. Griffin's live performances, such as the one at Ronnie Scott's in 1964 and his release "Ow! Live at the Penthouse," highlight the dynamic energy and virtuosic improvisation that define his legacy as one of the great tenor saxophonists of his time.

Genres

Hard Bop

Jazz Saxophone

Latest Release

Live in Valencia 92

Johnny Griffin

Ep - 6 Tracks - Released June 7, 2024