Spotlight on Jay McShann

The Last of the Blue Devils (Documentary)

Performing at the Mutual Musicians Foundation in Kansas City in 1974, McShann sings “Jumpin’ the Blues” and his hit “Hootie Blues” backed by his band.

Count Basie offers well deserved words of praise to fellow Kansas City pianist and bandleader Jay McShann during this jam session filmed and featured in the 1979 jazz documentary “The Last of the Blue Devils”.

McShann became a big name in Kansas City after moving there from Arkansas in 1936 and assembling a band which grew to include Ben Webster, Paul Quinichette and a young Charlie Parker.

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