Charles Mingus

Charles Mingus (April 22, 1922 - January 5, 1979) was an American jazz bassist, composer, bandleader, and occasional pianist. He is also known for his activism against racial segregation.

Early career

Mingus gained a reputation as something of a bass prodigy, and toured with Louis Armstrong in 1943, then played with Lionel Hampton's band in the late 1940s: Hampton performed and recorded a few of Mingus's pieces. A popular trio with Red Norvo and Tal Farlow in 1950 and 1951 received considerable acclaim.

Related Topics:
Louis Armstrong - 1943 - Lionel Hampton - Red Norvo - Tal Farlow - 1950 - 1951

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After bassist Oscar Pettiford broke his arm playing baseball, Mingus stepped in to replace him at the famed 1953 "Jazz At Massey Hall" concert. He joined Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, Bud Powell and Max Roach in what is widely regarded as one of the finest live jazz recordings.

Related Topics:
Oscar Pettiford - Baseball - 1953 - Dizzy Gillespie - Charlie Parker - Bud Powell - Max Roach

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Mingus was later a member of Ellington's band, and Mingus's notorious temper reportedly led to his being the only musician personally fired by Ellington.

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In 1952 Mingus cofounded Debut Records with Roach, in order to conduct his recording career as he saw fit.

Related Topics:
1952 - Debut Records

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In 1955, Mingus was involved in a notorious incident while playing a club date billed as a "reunion" with Parker, Powell, and Roach. Powell, who had suffered from alcoholism and mental illness for years (potentially exacerbated by a severe police beating and electroshock treatments), had to be helped from the stage, unable to play or speak coherently. As Powell's incapacitation became apparent, Parker stood in one spot at a microphone, chanting "Bud Powell...Bud Powell..." as if beseeching Powell's return. Allegedly, Parker continued this incantation for several minutes after Powell's departure, to his own amusement and Mingus's exasperation. Mingus took another mike and announced to the crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, please don't associate me with any of this. This is not jazz. These are sick people." Roughly a week later, Parker died from the massive complications of years of drug abuse.

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