Benny Bailey

Benny Bailey was a powerhouse American jazz trumpeter known for his fiery playing and versatile style. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1925, he came up in the swing and bebop eras and gained early experience with big names like Dizzy Gillespie and Lionel Hampton. Bailey eventually found a second home in Europe, spending considerable time in Sweden and Germany, where he became a staple of the European jazz scene. His command of the trumpet and distinctive, punchy tone made him a sought-after collaborator with both American and European jazz musicians.

Throughout his career, Benny Bailey recorded prolifically and played with a wide range of ensembles—from big bands to small combos. His recordings like Big Brass and From Europe with Jazz showcase his technical prowess and deep musicality. Bailey was particularly adept at blending the energetic phrasing of be-bop with a more lyrical, expressive approach, making his solos both thrilling and nuanced. A respected figure in jazz circles, his legacy lives on through an extensive body of work that continues to inspire trumpet players around the world.

Genres

Hard Bop

Bebop

Jazz

Latest Release

From Europe with Jazz

Jan Garbarek•

Terje Rypdal•

Art Farmer•

Benny Bailey

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released July 11, 2014