[Dixielandjazz] In search of a non-tragic jazz hero

[Andrew Homzy]

What is problematic is finding a "big name" from traditional jazz which meets the criteria. 

Lesser names - and with interesting histories are:

Connie Boswell - overcoming an incredible handicap

Red Nichols

Pee Wee Russell - also a visual artist

Al Hirt - losing weight

The Dukes of Dixieland - strong family 

Doc Cheatham

Benny Carter

Milt Hinton

I can think of many more -

Cheers - Andrew

> On Dec 9, 2014, at 5:28 PM, Charles Suhor <csuhor at zebra.net> wrote:
> 
> Going back to your criteria below, it seems that you're looking to get 
> (a) the most educational mileage (vis a vis the history of jazz)
> (b) a good story (some drama in it) that 
> (c) doesn't have basic negativity or a bad role model (alcoholism),
> (d) with accessible charts for the live band to play as "illustrations."  
> 
> Louis was perfect for this, but a lot of great players don't fill the bill well for one or more of the criteria. As an educator, I'd be focused on (a) as a starting point. Since you've done Louis, maybe swing era figures like the Dorsey Brothers, Glenn Miller, Goodman, or Duke Ellington would meet all the standards. An interesting question--thanks for posting.
> 
> Charlie