Ben Webster In The 1950’s

For this program I selected a narrow focus -- Ben Webster's activities in the 1950's.

Webster is best known as the tenor saxophone giant from Duke Ellington's famous bands followed up with fame and renown as an ongoing swing legend of the 1940's.  In his much later years as a European expatriate, Webster achieved international stardom and respect as an “elder statesman”.  But often overlooked were his contributions to jazz during the 1950's.  Then in his forties, Webster's maturing artistry reached a level of poetry and grace, which, when matched with his brute force and power, produced some stunning music, if not popular acclaim.

Our program will examine this aspect of his career.  First up was a return to Kansas City, with Jay McShann and other R&B offerings; next, teaming up in Norman Granz productions for jazz combos with his old swing friends, Oscar Peterson, and sensitive strings; as another highlight, rejoining Billie Holiday to provide necessary support for what were the best of Lady Day’s later recordings; and finally, moving to California, for a triumphant reception at the 1959 Monterrey Jazz Festival, leading to partnerships with blues shouter Jimmy Witherspoon and others.

 

originally broadcast in 2011