Johnny Hodges with the Duke Ellington Orchestra

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Here alto saxist Johnny Hodges plays one of his most defining tracks as part of one of the most defining moments of his career: his work with Duke Ellington and his orchestra.

Hodges is notable for having played the first chair in the ban. Legendary band leader Benny Goodman, with whom Hodges would play at the famous 1938 Carnegie Hall performance, would describe Hodges as perhaps the greatest alto sax player alive. Hodges also received the praises of jazz great Charlie Parker.

As a part of the Ellington orchestra in this ’59 Swiss performance, you may note his signature sliding widely between notes.

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