Clark Terry

Clark Terry celebrated his 75th birthday with an extensive tour of the world during 1995-96. His distinctive trumpet and vocal style along with his engaging personality have made him an international star in the world of jazz. He was born in St. Louis in 1920 and played briefly with Charlie Barnet and Eddie Vinson before joining Count Basie in 1948. From 1951-59 he traveled with the Duke Ellington Orchestra and toured Europe with the Quincy Jones production of "Free & Easy." Clark was part of the NBC Tonight Show Orchestra in New York City and has been a major influence on a generation of trumpet artists. He has been in the forefront of promoting jazz education and received an Honorary Doctorate from Hamilton College in 1995.

I spent some "quality time" with Clark Terry at Hamilton and this melody tries to capture the deceptive ease of his playing. He is a master storyteller and is living proof that it is possible to play serious jazz and have fun doing it. I think Wendell's and Bill's playing on this cut is simply outstanding and I'm still amazed at the seamless transition between their solos.