The Night People: The Jazz Life of Dicky Wells

by Dickey Wells, Stanley Dance (Collaborator)

Genres: Music

176 pages, Paperback

First published October 17, 1991

Reviews

[Ray Anderson]

A brilliant vivid portrait of one of the greatest jazz trombone players. It brings the life of a jazz musician in the 30s 40s and 50s so clearly into focus. Repeat with anecdotes of the famous musicians you worked with, Count Basie, Royal Eldridge, Fletcher Henderson, and many many others, the book also illustrates the wonderful culture and humor of the African-American jazz world. A marvelous book.

[Gerald]

A great recollection of what it was like being a world class musician and travelling entertainer in the 30's and 40's. Co-written by Stanley Dance, this quick read by the trombonist best known for his work with Count Basie is a great time capsule. Not to be missed is the slang glossary appendix as Wells and fellow Basie band mate Lester Young arguably invented Hip Speak.