[Dixielandjazz] Guitarist and "vout" expert Bulee "Slim " Gaillard early life in Pensacola, FL

[Norman Vickers]

To:  Musicians and Jazzfans list;  DJML

From:  Norman Vickers, Jazz Society of Pensacola

 

Few people know that guitarist, pianist, and "vout" expert Bulee"Slim"
Gaillard grew up in Pensacola.  He left Pensacola sometime before WWII and
was a duo with  bassist "Slam" Stewart. Called, naturally,  "Slim and Slam."

 

Gaillard perpetuated the myth that he was born in Cuba and that his father
was a ship captain.  He was left on the Island of Crete and finally made his
way to Detroit.  This myth was repeated by Leonard Feather and Ira Gitler in
the Encyclopedia of Jazz.  Also Stan Britt's entry in the Grove Encyclopedia
of Jazz C 2002 repeats this myth.  There are a number of You Tube entries
and one made in UK, apparently when he was in 60s ( from his appearance) he
perpetuated this myth- video was approximately one hour.  A couple of his
most famous tunes are  Flat Foot Floogie and Cement Mixer-Putti Putti.

 

Britt's article quotes our listmate  Steve Voce in JJI xxxv/10 (1982).  

 

I have found newspaper listings of his divorce in California and a brief
note about his having started a restaurant in LA and that it had closed and
creditors were seeking his whereabouts.

 

I met him briefly once in 1990 when a relative brought him to a Pensacola
Jazz Party.  I escorted him to a seat and then had to pursue some other
duties.  It was not the time or place for an extended conversation  He was
well dressed but suit seemed to large for him as though he'd lost weight.
Said that he was going to London to stay with his son who lived there.  Then
a few months later his death was announced.

 

 

 

I'm seeking anecdotes and data from those who might have come in contact
with him.  I'd appreciate your comments.  Let me know whether can pass these
along to the list or whether information should be treated as confidential.

 

Thanks.

 

Norman