Sunday, November 17, 2013

RIP, James P. Johnson (1894-1955)

The great stride pianist James P. Johnson died on November 17, 1956, in Jamaica, New York, four years after retiring from performing, following a severe stroke.

Johnson composed a number of hit tunes, including "Charleston," and was one of the giants of the Harlem Stride piano style.

In his book, The 101 Best Jazz Albums, Len Lyons recommends Johnson's album, "The Original James P. Johnson" (Folkways).  Jim Determan also recommends his "Snowy Morning Blues" (Verve) and "Father of the Stride Piano" (Sony).
He plays his composition, "Snowy Morning Blues," here:


Robert
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