Count Basie was among the most important bandleaders of the swing era. With the exception of a brief period in the early '50s, he led a big band from 1935 until his death almost 50 years later, and the band continued to perform after he died. Basie's orchestra was characterized by a light, swinging rhythm section that he led from the piano, lively ensemble work, and generous soloing. Basie was not a composer like Duke Ellington or an important soloist like Benny Goodman. His instrument was his band, which was considered the epitome of swing and became broadly influential on jazz.

All Music Guide

Count Basie
Ain't Too Proud To Beg
Bright Lights, Big City
Don't Let The Sun Catch You Crying
Goin' Out Of My Head
Green Onions
Hang On Sloopy
In The Heat Of The Night
Knock On Wood
Let The Good Times Roll
Memphis Tennessee
Mercy Mercy Mercy
Reach Out I'll Be There

Count Basie
With Jackie Wilson
Chain Gang
Even When You Cry
For Your Precious Love
Funky Broadway
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction
I Never Loved A Woman
I Was Made To Love Her
In The Midnight Hour
My Girl
Ode To Billy Joe
Respect
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