Doc Severinsen and the Tonight Show Band

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For 25 years (1967-92), trumpeter Doc Severinsen led the Tonight Show Band on the Johnny Carson Show.

While the orchestra mostly backed other performers and laughed at Carson’s jokes, every once in a while they had an opportunity to be featured on a number.

In 1986 they finally got around to recording an album, which gave Carson an excuse to feature the band.

After some humorous ad-libbing by Carson, the Tonight Show Band launches into an uptempo version of “Flying Home” that is full of excitement.

There are solos from pianist Ross Tompkins, swing era veteran trumpeter Snooky Young, trombonist Bruce Paulsen, and Severinsen himself along with some stirring ensembles.

-Scott Yanow

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