Sidney Bechet
- Type: Classic Bandleader
- Country: United States
- Born: May 14, 1897 in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
- Died: May 14, 1959 in Garches, France
- Active: 1897 - 1959
Biography
Sidney Bechet was a foundational American jazz soloist, composer, and a master of the clarinet and soprano saxophone. He was one of the first major jazz soloists, making his first recordings months before *Louis Armstrong*. Characterized by a powerful delivery, masterful improvisation, and a distinctive wide vibrato, Bechet's sound was dominant and unmistakable. He briefly worked with a young *Duke Ellington*, significantly influencing his early style. After achieving fame in Europe, he eventually settled in France, where he became a celebrated cultural figure. His work on early recordings for labels like #Okeh# and later for #Blue Note Records# cemented his legacy as a pioneer of jazz.
Sidney Bechet Discography
- Jazz Classics Vol. 1 (1950) - Compilation - rated 3.61/5
- Jazz Classics Vol. 2 (1950) - Compilation - rated 3.8/5
- With Wild Bill Davison (1950) - Album - rated 3.2/5
- Bechet (1951) - Album - rated 2.76/5
- Ambiance Bechet (1952) - Album - rated 3.84/5
- Port of Harlem Six (1952) - Album - rated 3.48/5
- Dixie by the Fabulous Sidney Bechet (1953) - Album - rated 3.71/5
- The Legendary Sidney Bechet (1988) - Compilation - rated 4.12/5
- Ken Burns Jazz (2000) - Compilation - rated 3.97/5
- The Fabulous Sidney Bechet (2001) - Compilation - rated 3.85/5