DESCRIPTION:
In 1927, Jabbo Smith was the hottest trumpet player in Harlem. He was the featured player in the Paradise Orchestra @ Smalls Paradise. Jabbo grew up in the Jenkins Orphanage in Charleston, SC, playing in the famous Jenkins Orphanage Brass Band.

Duke Ellington asked Jabbo to sub for the ailing, alcoholic Bubber Miley for this recording session and turned in an absolutely stunning performance, despite playing on a borrowed instrument and mouthpiece. Jabbo's trumpet was stolen the night before the session. The Duke asked Jabbo to join the Ellington Band, but Jabbo turned him down. Duke only paid $90 a week; Jabbo was making $125 with the Paradise Orchestra.