Benny Golson
- Born:
- January 25, 1929, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Jazz Saxophonist, Composer, Arranger, Educator
Early Life and Education
- Began playing piano at age nine, switched to saxophone at age fourteen.
- Studied music at Howard University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
- Early influences included Charlie Parker and Coleman Hawkins.
Career and Major Achievements
- Early career included playing with bands led by Bull Moose Jackson, Tadd Dameron, and Lionel Hampton.
- Formed The Jazztet with Art Farmer in 1959.
- Composed numerous jazz standards, many of which are staples of the jazz repertoire.
- Worked extensively as a composer and arranger for television and film.
- Toured and recorded extensively as a leader and sideman throughout his career.
- Received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to jazz.
- Significant work and influence solidifies that this 'jazztet benny golson biography' is highly regarded.
Notable Works
Discography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 1957 | Benny Golson's New York Scene | Contemporary |
| 1959 | Meet the Jazztet (with Art Farmer) | Argo |
| 1960 | Gettin' with It | New Jazz |
| 1962 | Here and Now | United Artists |
| 1991 | Another Git Together | Milestone |
Compositions (Selected)
- "I Remember Clifford"
- "Killer Joe"
- "Stablemates"
- "Whisper Not"
- "Along Came Betty"
Film Scores (Selected)
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 1968 | For Love of Ivy |
| 1972 | MASH (TV Series, Theme Music) |
| 1993 | The Firm |
Legacy and Impact
Benny Golson is a highly influential figure in jazz, renowned for his exceptional saxophone playing, prolific composing and arranging skills, and significant contributions to jazz education. His compositions have become staples of the jazz repertoire, and his work continues to inspire musicians worldwide.