Philly Joe Jones

Thanks to his pianist and organist mother, the young Philly Joe Jones quickly discovered the sensations of music. He took up the drums and, after a few years, played on the first stages, where he met saxophonists John Coltrane and Benny Golson, among others. Golson invited him to join his band in the mid-40s, and he went on to perform with Clifford Brown, the brothers Percy and Jimmy Heath, Fats Navarro and Dexter Gordon. After also accompanying Ben Webster, he became one of the most sought-after drummers of the '50s for recording sessions and in concert with the most gifted soloists of his generation. With bassist Paul Chambers, he made jazz history as a member of Miles Davis's legendary first quintet. The two formed one of the most prestigious rhythm groups of the '50s, about which Miles Davis was never stingy with his compliments. As well as being one of the musical pillars of the band, Philly Joe Jones was also responsible for the smooth running of the tours, mandated by the trumpeter to find the ideal partners for the concerts in each location. He remained close to Miles Davis for several years, while pursuing an independent career. This freedom gave him the opportunity to record for some of today's leading artists, including John Coltrane, Julian "cannonball" Adderley, Sonny Rollins, Johnny Griffin, Jackie McLean, Gil Evans, Wynton Kelly, Tadd Dameron, Art Farmer, Clark Terry and Abbey Lincoln. In the '60s, he pursued an international career, appearing at festivals once again with Miles Davis, then accompanying Sarah Vaughan, Erroll Garner and Bill Evans. He then moved to Great Britain and France. During his European years, Philly Joe Jones set up several drum schools, including one in collaboration with Kenny Clarke, who had also moved to France. After living in Paris for four years, he returned to the USA in the early 70s and continued to perform regularly as a leader with the Le Grand Prix orchestra and as a guest with Red Garland and Bill Evans. His last projects included conducting a large orchestra and collaborating on stage with LeRoi Jones and Archie Shepp shortly before his death.

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