Bunk Johnson - A Jazz Legend

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Biography

Willie Gary "Bunk" Johnson, born on December 27, 1889, in New Orleans, Louisiana, was a prominent jazz trumpeter who played a significant role in the early development of jazz and its revival in the 1940s.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Johnson was the youngest of 14 children. He received musical training from Adam Olivier and began his professional career in Olivier's orchestra. Although Johnson claimed to have played with the legendary Buddy Bolden, evidence suggests he may have performed only occasionally with Bolden's band. By the early 20th century, Johnson was recognized as one of New Orleans' leading trumpeters, performing with ensembles such as the Superior Orchestra and the Eagle Band.

Career Challenges and Hiatus

In 1915, after missing a Mardi Gras parade performance, Johnson faced threats from krewe members, prompting him to leave New Orleans. He toured with minstrel shows and circus bands before settling in New Iberia, Louisiana, in the early 1920s. There, he worked in rice mills and the public school system while continuing to play jazz with local groups like the Black Eagle Band from Crowley and the Banner Orchestra. In 1931, a violent incident at a dance in Rayne, Louisiana, resulted in Johnson losing his trumpet and front teeth, effectively ending his musical career at that time. He subsequently took on manual labor jobs and occasionally provided music lessons.

Revival and Recording Career

In the late 1930s, researchers for the jazz history book "Jazzmen" sought out Johnson after hearing praise from musicians like Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet. Correspondence with Johnson revealed his desire to play again if he had new teeth and a trumpet. Supporters arranged for him to receive dentures and a new instrument, leading to his first recordings in 1942 for Jazz Man Records. This marked the beginning of a resurgence in his career.

During the 1940s, Johnson, alongside clarinetist George Lewis, gained significant attention. He performed in cities like New Orleans, San Francisco, Boston, and New York City, making numerous recordings. While his performances showcased his talent and imagination, they also highlighted his unpredictability and temperamental nature. His fondness for alcohol sometimes affected his performances, contributing to his reputation as a controversial figure in the jazz community.

Death and Legacy

In late 1948, Johnson suffered a stroke and passed away on July 7, 1949, in New Iberia, Louisiana. Despite the controversies surrounding his career, Johnson's contributions to jazz, particularly his role in the New Orleans jazz revival of the 1940s, have been widely recognized. His recordings from this period continue to be appreciated for their historical significance and musicality.

Further Reading