Strike up the band count basie biography youtube

Count Basie was a pioneering jazz pianist and bandleader, known for his influential role in the swing era. With numerous hits and awards, he left a lasting impact on music. Count Basie, born William James Basie on August 21, , in Red Bank, New Jersey, was a pioneering figure in jazz music, especially known for his influence on the swing era.

A talented pianist from a young age, Basie's early exposure to music came from his family, particularly his mother, who was a pianist herself. After moving to New York, he honed his skills under the influence of jazz luminaries like James P. Johnson and Fats Waller, the latter teaching him essential organ techniques. His career trajectory took a significant turn when he found himself in Kansas City in the late s, a hub for the burgeoning big-band sound that he would soon embody.

In the s, Basie formed the Count Basie Orchestra, which became renowned for its pioneering contributions to the big-band movement.

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With hits such as "One O'Clock Jump" and "Jumpin' at the Woodside," Basie's orchestra showcased not only his elegant style of piano playing but also an extraordinary array of talented soloists. His understated yet captivating performances and impeccable musical leadership distinguished him in the jazz world. Basie's career peaked with numerous Grammy Awards, including making history as the first African American male recipient in He collaborated with an array of legends, leaving behind a monumental legacy in jazz music upon his passing on April 26,