TRANSCRIPT:
Hi, I am Mark Rapp, and this is Rapp on Jazz.
William James Basie, also known as Count Basie, was a legendary bandleader and pianist whose Kansas City swing defined an era of jazz. In 1935, he formed the Count Basie Orchestra and led the group for almost 50 years.
Known for hits like One O’clock Jump, Basie’s music emphasized a dynamic rhythm section and the art of solo, creating a unique interplay between musicians.
Basie’s orchestra was a breeding ground for jazz legends like Lester Young, Freddie Green, Harry Sweets Edison, and Billie Holiday. His minimalist piano style and focus on groove made his work timeless, influencing countless jazz artists.
This has been Rapp On Jazz, a co-production of ColaJazz and SC Public Radio, made possible in part by Layman Poupard Publishers, producers of the Literary Criticism Series and the Dictionary of Literary Biography.