Here is an overdue homage to legendary trumpeter Donald Byrd, who recently passed on Feb 4, at 81 yrs young.
He is one of my major influences, and had a unique style that was concise, lyrical, full of wit, and which perfectly blended deep jazz and R&B expressions.
He successfully moved into popular acceptance with his Blackbyrds group, made up largely of his students. Who doesn't recall Walkin' In Rhythm? However, his true jazz artistry was highly respected by his peers like Herbie Hancock, and was far more worthy of note than his later 'pop' years. I recommend you dig up albums such as Mustang, Catwalk, Fuego, In Flight, and a New Perspective to get a taste of his consummate skill. Donald, you are not forgotten!
