It could be said without much exaggeration that J.J. Johnson saved his instrument from near-extinction.
In the mid-1940s when bebop with its rapid tempos and advanced harmonies became dominant, the trombone had the potential of being marginalized like the clarinet and becoming primarily associated with early jazz.
However J.J. Johnson figured out how to excel at fast tempos and not be overshadowed by trumpeters and saxophonists; his superior technique soon became the major influence on young modern trombonists and he remained a pacesetter for decades.
From a French television broadcast from May 26, 1961, J.J. Johnson is featured on “Like Someone In Love” in a pianoless trio that also includes bassist Pierre Michelot and drummer Kenny Clarke.
The trombonist makes it all sound so effortless.
-Scott Yanow
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