Johnny Griffin R.I.P

I learned today, via Paul Bream, the sad news that tenor saxist Johnny Griffin has died at the age of 80.

Once known as 'The Fastest Gun in the West', the 'Little Giant' - a title he appropriately shared with Tubby Hayes - made a memorable appearance at Newcastle's Connaught Hall back in the 1960s - one of Jazz North-east's earliest promotions. I remember the concert well as I was propping up the bar of the Eldon Grill for a pre-concert beer when Johnny Griffin and pianist Damian Robinson came in and stood next to us. Immediately, my buddy, Charlie Carmichael, attempted to engage him in a conversation about mouthpieces but Johnny was more interested in the products of Newcastle Breweries than Otto Link.

Finding our local brew to his satisfaction, he then crossed over to Connaught Hall where he preceded to give a masterclass in saxophone playing that may well have influenced Charlie's future stylistic endeavours. Who knows but that even now they are talking mouthpieces?

Farewell to another one of the greats.