Memories of Legendary Musicians and the Cool People I Met
In the early 1960s, at the tender age of eight, my mother and I embarked on a unique journey to New York City, where I had the incredible opportunity to join the cast of The Sound of Music. As one of the young boys portraying ‘Kurt von Trapp’ on Broadway, we were fortunate to double-cast, adhering to child labor laws that allowed actors under the age of 18 to appear in only four of the eight shows per week. It was an unforgettable experience that not only introduced me to the world of theater but also brought me into the music scene of New York City.
A Window to Jazz and Beyond
During rehearsals and after shows, my mother and I would often head over to a club called Small’s Paradise in New York City's Harlem. This club was the perfect setting for late-night jazz jam sessions, where I had the privilege of performing with adult jazz musicians. It was during these sessions that I got to meet and sing with some of the most influential figures in jazz history, including Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Sarah Vaughan, Mel Torme, and Ella Fitzgerald, among others.
These jazz luminaries were not only talented but also incredibly kind to me. They took the time to mentor me, complimenting me when I did well and offering constructive criticism where needed. Among the musicians I got to know and occasionally sing with were Dizzy Gillespie, Gerry Mulligan, and Bobby Troup, all of whom left a lasting impression on me. My friendship with Joe Williams, a great jazz and blues singer, was particularly close and lasted for the last nine years of his life, a friendship that bonded us through both music and camaraderie.
Jazz musicians, in general, form a special community. These artists do not differentiate based on gender, age, race, or sexual orientation. As long as one possesses a talent or a deep love for jazz, they are accepted into the fold. The passion for music transcends these barriers and fosters a sense of family among the musicians.
A Late-Night Set at a Texas Bar
Years later, life brought me to Austin, Texas, where I had the chance to meet with some local musicians. On a night when I was working out of town, a group of these musicians invited me to sit in with them during a gig at a local bar. I arrived early to the venue, struck up a conversation with a man, and before long, the bartender informed me that the band had to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances. As it turned out, the man I had been talking to was Rusty Weir, a well-known figure in the country music world rather than a super star. Despite Rusty's less prominent status, he was a pleasant and approachable person. He inquired if I had brought my guitar, and after confirming that I had, he proposed that we go on stage to play.
Fortunately, I didn't bring my amplifier, as navigating the 6-inch step moon tree stage at such an impromptu performance would have been quite challenging for either of us. Despite the simplification of the performance, it was a memorable moment. Rusty's genuine interest in connecting with another enthusiast over music reflected yet another kind-hearted encounter in a long line of such experiences.
These encounters with legendary musicians and cool people, like Rusty Weir, serve as a testament to the enduring power of music to bring people together and create unforgettable memories. As a jazz musician at heart, no matter what path life has taken me, my deep-rooted connection to this musical genre remains unbroken.