Lee Morgan was an American jazz trumpeter and composer, born on July 10, 1938, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and tragically died at the young age of 33 on February 19, 1972. He was a prodigious talent who emerged as one of the leading trumpeters of his generation during the hard bop era.
Morgan’s career began in his teens when he joined Dizzy Gillespie’s big band. He then gained prominence as a member of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, where he played alongside other jazz luminaries such as Wayne Shorter and Bobby Timmons.
Throughout the 1960s, Morgan recorded prolifically as a bandleader and sideman. Some of his most acclaimed albums include “The Sidewinder,” which became a crossover hit, and “Cornbread.” He was known for his lyrical and soulful playing style, as well as his ability to infuse his music with infectious grooves and catchy melodies.
Tragically, Morgan’s life was cut short when he was shot and killed by his common-law wife, Helen More, during a confrontation at a jazz club in New York City. His death shocked the jazz community, and he was mourned as a great talent lost too soon.
Despite his untimely death, Lee Morgan’s music continues to be celebrated for its brilliance and innovation. He remains one of the most influential trumpeters in the history of jazz, leaving behind a rich legacy of recordings that continue to inspire musicians and jazz enthusiasts around the world.
Line up :
Jonathan Ho
Daniel Clason
Sungjea Oh
Paolo Petrecca