Bernard Addison
American jazz guitarist who played with Armstrong and the Mills Brothers.
Bernard Sylvester Addison (April 15, 1905 – December 18, 1990) was an American jazz guitarist. Born in Annapolis, Maryland, he started on mandolin and violin before moving to Washington, D.C. in 1920, where he played banjo with Claude Hopkins. After moving to New York City, he worked with Sonny Thompson and made his first recording in 1924. During the 1920s and 1930s, he played with Louis Armstrong, Adelaide Hall, Fletcher Henderson, Bubber Miley, Art Tatum, and Fats Waller, and recorded with Red Allen, Coleman Hawkins, Horace Henderson, Freddie Jenkins, Sara Martin, Jelly Roll Morton, and Mamie Smith. In 1936, he replaced John Mills in the Mills Brothers, touring and recording with them for two years. His only album as a leader, Pete's Last Date, was reissued under the name of saxophonist Pete Brown.
Quick Facts
- Birth name
- Bernard Sylvester Addison
- Born
- 15 April 1905
- Birthplace
- Annapolis, Maryland, U.S.
- Died
- 18 December 1990
- Place of death
- Rockville Centre, New York, U.S.
- Genre
- Jazz, swing
- Occupation
- Musician
- Instrument
- Guitar
Facts from the source article.
Background
Addison's career took a major turn in 1936 when John Mills of the Mills Brothers died and Addison replaced him on guitar. For two years he toured and recorded with the group, boosting his popularity. After leaving the Mills Brothers, he found steady work, recording with Benny Carter and Mezz Mezzrow, playing with Stuff Smith, and recording with Billie Holiday. In 1940, he recorded with Armstrong and Sidney Bechet. He began leading bands until he was drafted during World War II. In the late 1950s, he reunited with Henderson and played guitar for the Ink Spots. He performed at the Newport Jazz Festival with Eubie Blake in 1960 and recorded a solo album. The rest of his career he spent teaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Bernard Addison born?
Bernard Addison was born on 15 April 1905 in Annapolis, Maryland, U.S.
When did Bernard Addison die?
Bernard Addison died on 18 December 1990 in Rockville Centre, New York, U.S.
What did Bernard Addison do?
Bernard Addison was a Musician.
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