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George Lewis

From HitStory, the pop encyclopedia of School of Rock · Artist

George Lewis, born Joseph Louis Francois Zenon, was an American jazz clarinettist, born on 13 July 1900 in New Orleans and died on 31 December 1968. He became best known in his last decades. Through his mother he had a Senegalese great-great-grandmother, and her family long preserved knowledge of the language and customs of Senegal. In the 1920s he formed the New Orleans Stompers and worked with, among others, Chris Kelly, Buddy Petit and Kid Rena. He also played in the Eureka Brass Band and the Olympia Orchestra. In the 1930s he played with Bunk Johnson, De De Pierce and Billie Pierce.

Music and breakthrough

Because he earned too little as a musician, he loaded and unloaded ships on the Mississippi. In 1944 he was injured when a heavy container nearly crushed him. During his recovery his friends, the banjo player Lawrence Marrero and the bassist Alcide Pavageau, came to his bedside with their instruments. Bill Russell recorded their improvisation, Burgundy Street Blues, which became Lewis's trademark. Until 1946 he played in Bunk Johnson's band, with which he went to New York and recorded for Decca and Victor. After Johnson's departure Lewis took over the leadership.

Influence

His albums include Jazz Funeral in New Orleans from 1953, George and the Vikings from 1959 and Jazz at Preservation Hall 3 from 1963. He also recorded in Japan and with Papa Bue's Viking Jazzband.

Listening

Listening tip. Listen to Burgundy Street Blues and notice the tone of his clarinet and the simple accompaniment. The piece came about during his recovery, with a few friends at his bedside.

Discography

Studio albums

In School of Rock

The chapters, maps and magazine stories of School of Rock are currently available in Dutch only.

See also

Categories: ArtistsNew Orleans jazz