Lester Young

Saxophonist influential in jazz music

Lester Young - Saxophonist influential in jazz music
Born

August 27th, 1909
115 years ago

Died

March 15th, 1959
66 years ago — 49 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American saxophonist and clarinet player, contributed significantly to the development of jazz music in the early 20th century. Young's unique style, characterized by a smooth, laid-back sound, influenced many musicians. He gained prominence while playing with the Count Basie Orchestra during the 1930s. His work included numerous recordings, both as a solo artist and as a collaborator, showcasing his innovative approach to improvisation. His notable compositions, like 'Lester Leaps In' and 'Savoy Blues,' became jazz standards, helping to shape the genre.

Played with the Count Basie Orchestra

Recorded 'Lester Leaps In' and 'Savoy Blues'

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