Dimensions
156 x 234 x 12mm
The Life of Henry "Red" Allen
This is the first biography of jazz trumpeter and singer, Henry "Red" Allen, long regarded as Louis Armstrong's chief rival. Both men were born in New Orleans and shared an African-American heritage, but their social backgrounds were quite different, as were their personalities. Whereas Armstrong made many best-selling records, Allen never achieved Hit Parade success but gradually built up a durable international following - today dozens of his CDs are widely available.
As a close friend, Chilton brings to light various aspects of Allen's personality, as well as analysing his magnificent recordings. The intriguing contrast between Allen's personality, as well as analysing his reticence is dealt with, and fascinating details of Allen's early life in New Orleans and on the Mississippi riverboats are brought to light.
Allen's popularity has increased each year since his death in 1967; his latter-day tours of Europe are still regarded as being among the most successful by any visiting jazz musicians. The background details of all the periods of Allen's varied career are dealt with, including his work with King Oliver, Luis Russell, Fletcher Henderson, Kid Ory and Louis Armstrong.
