Rapp on Jazz

James "Jimmy" Witherspoon was a jump blues singer who began recording with Jay McShann's band. In 1949, "Ain't Nobody's Business," hit the charts and became his signature tune. 

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Joe Williams was a jazz singer who left an indelible mark on the music world.

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Thelma Carpenter was a jazz singer and actress best known for her role as Miss One, the Good Witch of the North, in "The Wiz."

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Helen Humes was a remarkable blues and popular singer for the Basie Band following Billie Holiday. She embodied the blues’ playful spirit and deep emotions with her delightful and girlish timbre.

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Jimmy Rushing, born James Andrew Rushing, was affectionately known as "Mr. Five by Five." This pianist and vocalist with Count Basie's Orchestra was the subject of a 1942 popular song. 

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Al Grey was a jazz trombonist with the Count Basie orchestra known for his plunger mute technique. 

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Harry "Sweets" Edison was a jazz trumpeter best known as the Count Basie Orchestra member. He was recognized for his muted trumpet work, accompanying legendary singers like Frank Sinatra.

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Jazz trumpeter Wilbur Dorsey "Buck" Clayton is celebrated for his vibrant contributions to Count Basie's orchestra. 

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Lester Willis Young, or the "Prez," was a jazz tenor saxophonist and clarinetist. Billie Holiday gave him this nickname in honor of President Franklin Roosevelt, whom she considered "the greatest man around." 

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Herschel "Tex" Evans was an exceptional tenor saxophonist whose contributions to the Count Basie Orchestra left a lasting impact on jazz. 

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