Thursday, December 18, 2008

Bobby Watson: KC's Premier Soloist


Is any jazz musician in Kansas City capable of reeling off a more viscerally entertaining and intellectually stimulating solo than Bobby Watson? Harold O'Neal, Loren Pickford and Bram Wijnands are possible contenders. Still, it's difficult to imagine any artist topping Watson's display in this recently posted video.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

It's not good to compare musicians, especially at this level. But, Bobby Watson has his own style and that brings a smile to my face every time I hear him perform too. Total command of his instrument and the music. I don't think he gets enough credit for that because he doesn't have many peers in that regard anywhere, IMHO.

Here is a youtube video that not only amplifies your post, but shows just how long he has continued to play at this level. Bobby does it all, man - he's THE cat.

I really enjoy your site. Thanks for the work you are doing for the music!

Peace, Cb

Happy In Bag said...

Watson sure was skinny back then!

And you're right, CB, comparing musicians is often foolish. In this case I was attempting to highlight Watson's greatness rather than to diminish the contributions of other artists.

By the way, CB, there's an exceptional saxophonist in this town with your initials. Don't sleep on Chris Burnett.

Anonymous said...

Hey man, thanks. That's me...

Peace, Cb