Chu Berry

Although less well known today, tenor saxophonist Leon “Chu” Berry was one of the most vital and vibrant improvising musicians of the Swing Era.

He was an innovator and progenitor of modern saxophone styles, cited as an influence by many insiders.  Berry was a leading figure in big bands such as Fletcher Henderson’s, and the featured soloist in Cab Calloway’s famous orchestra.  Chu also recorded legendary small group sides, accompanied vocalists such as Billie Holiday and Mildred Bailey on some of their classic recordings, and made some key dates with Roy Eldridge, Teddy Wilson and Lionel Hampton.  Unfortunately, he died young, from injuries suffered in an automobile accident, at the age of 33, on October 30, 1941.

 Originally broadcast January 6, 2013; rebroadcast February 21, 2021