One of the more elusive figures in modern jazz finally closed the piano lid on March 17. Although he did record for Blue Note and other labels he is mostly remembered for the music he composed for The Connection, a play in which he also appeared on stage in an acting roll along with altoist Jackie McLean. The music which was released by Blue Note is a lasting testimony to his greatness.
Freddie Redd was 92. May he Rest In Peace.
Lance
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A long time ago there used to be a cinema situated half-way down Market Street Manchester called the Cinephone. It showed mainly obscure foreign movies and sometimes British ones that were deemed too hot for general release. I saw in the evening paper they were screening a Jazz-related film titled The Connection. It was a great film and Jackie McClean and Freddy Redd made a big impact on the local Jazz scene. Years later I encountered the drummer from the Connection quartet, Larry Ritchie playing with Johnny Griffin at the Blue Note in Paris.He was suffering from toothache so not playing at his best! That was a great tribute to Freddy Redd, a true be-bop legend.
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