Monday, December 10, 2012

Freddie Hubbard, Live at the East Town

I had been following the work of the great trumpeter, Freddie Hubbard, since the sixties. But, hadn't seen him live before his 70's date at the East Town Hotel in East Cleveland, Ohio. My college room-mate's father owned the East Town, and I was offered a free pass. As a broke, Jazz loving college student I jumped at the opportunity.

Of course, Freddie achieved popularity in 1970's through his association with CTI Records, particularly with his release of Red Clay. But, it was during the bebop, hard bop and post bop periods of Jazz that he was first recognized for his contribution to new perspectives in modern Jazz, playing with 'Trane, Ornette Coleman, and other greats.

But, this was the 70's and Miles Davis was setting the tone, not only in music, but also in appearance with a vast array of clothing styles. This was Miles's Bitches Brew, On The Corner period. Many young lions had worked with Miles, and later joined Freddie as Miles had moved on.

Hubbard won a Grammy in 1972 for his First Light release.

So, it was only at this point in time, early 70's, that I was able to see him. It was vintage stuff that night from Freddie, but I was very surprised to see him on stage dressed in a sparkling, bright silver jumpsuit, with matching platform-heeled boots, and "spaced out" sunglasses. I'll never forget that sight. Freddie had clearly taken a page from Miles's wardrobe inventory.

 RIP: Freddie Hubbard

No comments:

Post a Comment

<2>,