J. J. Johnson
Trombone Solo on
Charlie's Wig

About

J. J. Johnson's trombone solo is the 2nd of 3 on this recording, spanning one chorus at approximately 190 BPM. Set within a swinging rhythmic framework, the 32-bar ABCB form and the key of B♭, the solo navigates the chord changes with purpose. Built on the chord changes of "When I Grow Too Old to Dream," the harmonic foundation is a familiar one in the jazz repertoire, inviting inventive melodic departures. Positioned between Charlie Parker and Miles Davis, Johnson bridges the conversation between the two. Johnson on trombone alongside the standard quintet.

J. J. Johnson was 22 to 23 years old at the time.