Weldon Leo “Jack” Teagarden (August 20, 1905 – January 15, 1964) was a jazz trombonist and singer.
Teagarden’s trombone style was largely self-taught, and he developed many unusual alternative positions and novel special effects on the instrument. He is usually considered the most innovative jazz trombone stylist of the pre-bebop era – Pee Wee Russell once called him “the best trombone player in the world” – and did much to expand the role of the instrument beyond the old tailgate style role of the early New Orleans brass bands. Chief among his contributions to the language of jazz trombonists was his ability to interject the blues or merely a “blue feeling” into virtually any piece of music.
Jack Teagarden Personal Life
Jack Teagarden was born on August 20, 1905, in Vernon, Texas, and died on January 15, 1964, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Here are some interesting facts about him:
Overall, Jack Teagarden was a highly influential figure in the development of jazz music, and his innovative approach to the trombone and his commitment to musical collaboration and integration continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.
Quotes about Jack Teagarden
“Jack Teagarden was one of the greatest trombonists in the history of jazz. His sound was both powerful and soulful.” – Wynton Marsalis
“Jack Teagarden was a true original, a musician who created his own style and sound. His music was both innovative and timeless.” – Herbie Hancock
“the best trombone player in the world” – Pee Wee Russell
“Jack Teagarden had a way of playing the trombone that was both elegant and powerful. He was a master of his craft.” – Tony Bennett
“Jack Teagarden was a true artist, a musician who brought a new level of expression to the trombone. His music was both beautiful and heartfelt.” – Diana Krall
“Jack Teagarden was a musical pioneer. He helped to shape the sound of jazz and paved the way for generations of musicians to come.” – Michael Bublé
“Jack Teagarden had a unique voice on the trombone. He had a way of making the instrument sing that was truly remarkable.” – Norah Jones
“Jack Teagarden was a true innovator of jazz. His influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who came after him.” – Quincy Jones
“Jack Teagarden was a master of improvisation. His solos were always full of surprises and he had a way of making the music come alive.” – Jamie Cullum
“Jack Teagarden was a legend, a musician whose impact on jazz will never be forgotten.” – Benny Goodman
“Jack Teagarden was one of the greats, a musician whose music continues to inspire and move listeners around the world.” – Willie Nelson
Jack Teagarden Awards
- 1944 Esquire magazine Gold Award
- 1957-60 Playboy Magazine All Star Band
- 1957 Featured Performer, Newport Jazz Festival
- 1969 Down Beat Jazz Hall of Fame
- 1985 Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame
- 2005 ASCAP Jazz Wall of Fame
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Jack Teagarden
Jack Teagarden
Reminiscence (2021) “St. James Infirmary”
Cesar Chavez (2014) “Beale Street Blues”
Low Down (2014) “Big Eight Blues”
On the Road (2012) “Beale Street Blues”
Bringing Up Bobby (2011) “Chinatown, My Chinatown”
Johnny Mercer: The Dream’s on Me (2009) “The Waiter, the Porter and the Upstairs Maid”, “Jeepers Creepers”, “Fare-Thee-Well to Harlem”
A Previous Engagement (2008) “You Rascal You”, “After You’ve Gone”
Seabiscuit (2003) “Son of the Sun”
I Woke Up Early the Day I Died (1998) “Puttin’ and Takin'”
Claire Dolan (1998) “A Hundred Years from Today”
Infinity (1996) “She’s A Great, Great Girl”
The War Room (1993) “I Swung the Election”
King of the Hill (1993) “A Hundred Years from Today”
Nothing But Trouble (1991) “She’s A Great, Great Girl”
Twilight on the Prairie (1944) “The Blues”
Hi, Good Lookin’! (1944) “Aunt Hagar’s Blues”
So’s Your Uncle (1943) “Otchi Tchorniya (Dark Eyes)”
Birth of the Blues (1941) “The Waiter, and the Porter and the Upstairs Maid”
Yes, Jack Teagarden collaborated with a number of other musicians throughout his career, including Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, and Glenn Miller.
Some of Jack Teagarden’s most famous songs include “Basin Street Blues,” “Stars Fell on Alabama,” and “I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues.”
Jack Teagarden’s musical style was a blend of Dixieland jazz, swing, and blues. He was known for his use of the trombone as a solo instrument and for his expressive, soulful singing.
Jack Teagarden was an American jazz trombonist and singer who was active from the 1920s through the 1960s. He was known for his virtuosic playing style and his bluesy vocals.
This Jazz Inspiration Profile of Jack Teagarden is sponsored by Sacramento Top 10, the best local list of auto repair shops, home improvement contractors, restaurants and more.
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