Why is American jazz band leader William “Count” Basie a classic? Basie pioneered the Kansas City jazz style that has come to define music of the pre-war era. He had a penchant for sniffing out emerging talent and proved his command through notable collaborations with greats like Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and even Tito Puente. His orchestra served as a training ground for young jazz virtuosos like Buck Clayton, Frank Foster, and Buddy Rich. Basie also collected a stable of legendary arrangers, including Quincy Jones, Billy Eckstine, and Benny Carter. Still, what continues to thrill fans and draw... More >>>