Posted by Hal Smith on January 29, 2001 at 16:31:29:
In Reply to: A few comments on this mess posted by Scott Yanow on January 29, 2001 at 16:05:54:
I tried submitting a follow up, but I don't think it went through. I'll try again...
Thank you, Scott, for pointing out the musicians who were "missing in action."
Lu Watters certainly deserved at least a MENTION, though photo(s) and recorded examples of the YBJB would have been appropriate too. Lu was a visionary and his hard work and determination made it possible for generations of musicians and listeners to enjoy the classic compositions of yesteryear, while creating a new sound in traditional jazz. (And Turk Murphy was not a silent bystander in this procedure, either).
As far as I know, Bunk, George Lewis and Kid Ory were omitted from the program. Can this be?
And the comment on Jess Stacy's classic solo is so true. Was this revolutionary performance less important to the Swing Era (and to Jazz in general)than the gruesome "Strange Fruit?" This series certainly has had some odd priorities and an abiding lack of taste.