Lionel Hampton Jazzman Date of Birth: 20.04.1908 Country: USA

1. Lionel Hampton: A Jazz Legend Passes
2. A Giant Among Jazz Legends
3. A Multifaceted Pioneer
4. Flight of the Bumble Bee
5. Early Life and Influences
6. The Benny Goodman Quartet
7. A Global Ambassador
8. Legacy and Honors

Lionel Hampton: A Jazz Legend Passes

Renowned vibraphonist, bandleader, vocalist, actor, and entertainer Lionel Hampton passed away at the age of 94 due to heart failure. His illustrious career spanned six decades, during which he collaborated with some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.

A Giant Among Jazz Legends

Hampton's musical achievements left an indelible mark on the history of jazz. He played alongside icons such as Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, and Quincy Jones. Music historian Phil Schaap remarked, "With Hampton's passing, we lose a part of the early jazz age."

A Multifaceted Pioneer

Not only was Hampton a virtuoso vibraphonist, but he also captivated audiences with his infectious energy and charismatic stage presence. His performances were characterized by his white-toothed grin, swinging rhythms, and energetic drumming on the piano.

Flight of the Bumble Bee

Hampton's signature piece, "Flight of the Bumble Bee," composed in 1937, became a staple of his live performances. He played this hit approximately 300 times a year for the next 50 years.

Early Life and Influences

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Hampton's exact birth date is uncertain. Raised by his grandmother, he began learning drums in elementary school and later joined Les Hite's Orchestra. In the early 1930s, during a jazz session, Louis Armstrong encouraged Hampton to try the vibraphone. Within 45 minutes, he was swinging behind Armstrong on "Memories of You."

The Benny Goodman Quartet

In 1936, Benny Goodman recruited Hampton for his groundbreaking Benny Goodman Quartet. This ensemble, featuring Goodman, Hampton, pianist Teddy Wilson, and drummer Gene Krupa, broke down racial barriers by integrating black and white musicians in public performances.

A Global Ambassador

After leading his own orchestra, Hampton embarked on global tours, spreading the joy of jazz worldwide. He became a music ambassador for the United States, earning international acclaim.

Legacy and Honors

Hampton's legacy lives on through his foundation of the Lionel Hampton School of Music at the University of Idaho in 1987. The Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, inaugurated in 2007, honors his lasting contributions to the genre.

In 1997, Hampton received the National Medal of Arts, despite having lost all of his belongings in a fire just two days prior. President George W. Bush paid tribute to him, saying, "We have lost a legendary figure whose life reflected the history of music."