Introducing Johnny Griffin - Johnny Griffin

Introducing Johnny Griffin is the Chicago-born tenor saxophonist's debut for Blue Note Records, recorded on April 17, 1956 at Rudy Van Gelder's studio in Hackensack, New Jersey. Produced by Alfred Lion, the quartet features Wynton Kelly on piano, Curly Russell on bass, and Max Roach on drums. The program mixes Griffin originals with standards across nine tracks, ranging from blistering uptempo pieces to lyrical ballads. Griffin's own "Mil Dew" and "Chicago Calling" reflect his roots in the Chicago bebop scene, while his readings of "These Foolish Things," "Lover Man," and Cole Porter's "It's All Right with Me" demonstrate a warm, singing tone that balanced his reputation for sheer speed. By 1956, Griffin had already played in Lionel Hampton's big band and spent time working in rhythm and blues groups, but this session introduced his tenor to a broader jazz audience. His rapid-fire technique and punchy attack earned him the nickname "the Little Giant" — a reference to both his small physical stature and the outsized power of his playing. Roach's drumming adds rhythmic sophistication throughout, and Kelly's comping provides a buoyant foundation. The album launched Griffin's prolific Blue Note association, which continued with A Blowing Session the following year.