Easy Living – 1965

Trumpeter Lee Morgan, who was considered a phenomenon in 1957 when the 18-year old was featured with the Dizzy Gillespie Orchestra and on his own records, gained fame for his playing with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers during 1958-61.

After a period off the scene, he made a comeback in 1963 when he recorded the surprise hit “The Sidewinder” and spent 1964-65 back with Blakey while recording his own classic albums for Blue Note.

On this film clip from Feb. 27-28, 1965, Morgan is showcased at a Paris concert on the 1930s ballad “Easy Living,” performing with pianist John Hicks, bassist Victor Sproles, and drummer Art Blakey; tenor-saxophonist John Gilmore is heard in the background.

The trumpeter is in fine form, showing why he is still rated so high.

-Scott Yanow