School of Rock
Random article All articles A–Z
2 languages

Jo Jones

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

Jo Jones was an American jazz drummer, born in Chicago in 1911. He grew up in Alabama, where he learned several instruments, including saxophone, piano and drums. He worked as a drummer and tap dancer in carnival shows and, in the late 1920s, joined Walter Page's Blue Devils in Oklahoma City. In 1931 he recorded with trumpeter Lloyd Hunter's orchestra and in 1934 he joined Count Basie's band. From 1934 to 1948 he formed the rhythm section of the Count Basie Orchestra. To distinguish him from the younger drummer Philly Joe Jones, he later became known as Papa Jo Jones.

Music and breakthrough

His playing changed the role of the drums. He was one of the first to promote the use of brushes and he shifted the timekeeping from the bass drum to the hi-hat. This differed from the prevailing style of Gene Krupa, who loudly hit the bass drum on every beat. Jones often left the bass drum out altogether and kept the hi-hat constantly opening and closing. This gave the rhythm a light, continuous sway that later drummers adopted.

Influence

He influenced Buddy Rich, Kenny Clarke, Roy Haynes, Max Roach and Louie Bellson. He appeared in films, including the 1944 music film Jammin' the Blues. In 1979 he was inducted into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and in 1985 he received an American Jazz Masters fellowship. His memoir, Rifftide, appeared in 2011. He died in 1985.

Listening

Listening tip. Listen to a recording by the Count Basie Orchestra from the 1930s and notice the drums: the hi-hat ticks lightly and continuously and the bass drum does not play on every beat.

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: Artists