Webster Young - A Quiet Legend · Live in Saint Louis 1961 (Remastered) (2025) Hi-Res

Born in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1932 and raised in Washington, D.C., cornet and trumpet player Webster Young developed his passion for jazz under the tutelage of Louis Armstrong and the inspiration of bebop pioneers such as Dizzy Gillespie. Nicknamed “Little Diz” for his early Gillespie-influenced style, Young honed his craft in Washington’s vibrant jazz scene before serving in the Army during the Korean War, where he played in a band with pianist Hampton Hawes.

In 1956, Young followed Miles Davis’ advice and moved to New York City, where he immersed himself in the modern jazz movement, collaborating with luminaries like Lester Young, Bud Powell, Jackie McLean, and John Coltrane. Davis profoundly shaped Young’s lyrical, introspective style, while Billie Holiday served as another key inspiration, infusing his playing with emotional depth and bluesy resilience.

Young’s 1957 album 'For Lady,' a tribute to Billie Holiday, showcases his soft, heartfelt cornet tone and his ability to convey both melancholy and defiance. That same year, he appeared on Jackie McLean’s groundbreaking albums and contributed to Prestige Records’ 'Interplay for Two Trumpets and Two Tenors' with Coltrane, cementing his reputation as a distinctive voice in modern jazz.

After returning to Washington, D.C., in 1959, Young pursued new opportunities, including an extended stay in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1961. During his tenure at the Little Nero Lounge, a live recording session organized by jazz enthusiast Frank Sousan captured Young leading a quintet featuring some of the area’s finest musicians. The session highlights Young’s evolving style, deeply influenced by Miles Davis, and remains a cherished testament to his artistry.

This release celebrates the artistry of Webster Young, a quiet legend of jazz whose understated brilliance and soulful expression continue to resonate. Despite his sparse recordings, his unique voice left an indelible mark on jazz history, embodying the depth and grace of a musician whose talent deserves greater recognition.

—Jordi Pujol