Paul Quinichette

Paul Quinichette was a jazz tenor saxophonist known for his smooth, flowing style and deep admiration for Lester Young, earning him the nickname "Vice President" or "Vice Prez" in tribute to Young’s own moniker, "Prez." Active primarily during the 1940s and 1950s, Quinichette played with some of the era's most prominent big bands, including those led by Count Basie and Lionel Hampton. His tone and phrasing closely mirrored Young’s, but Quinichette brought his own subtle flair to the cool, swinging approach that defined his playing.

In addition to his work as a sideman, Quinichette led several distinguished recording sessions. One standout collaboration was the 1957 album "Cattin' with Coltrane and Quinichette," where he shared the spotlight with the rising star John Coltrane. He also paid homage to his swing-era roots on albums like "Basie Reunion" and "For Basie." Though his career waned in later years, his recordings remain a testament to his deep understanding of the tenor saxophone’s lyrical possibilities and his unique place in the jazz tradition.

Genres

Jazz Blues

Hard Bop

Jazz

Swing Music

R&b

Funk

Contemporary Jazz

Big Band

Bebop

Swing

Cool Jazz

Soul Jazz

Related Artists

Stan Getz

Lester Young

Dexter Gordon

Gene Ammons

Coleman Hawkins

Zoot Sims

Ben Webster

Sonny Stitt

Al Cohn

John Coltrane

Billie Holiday

Count Basie

Latest Release

Wheelin' And Dealin' (Remastered 2025)

Frank Wess•

John Coltrane•

Paul Quinichette

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released August 22, 2025