NPR's 'Jazz Profiles' archive
Listen In Memoriam, James Moody
December 10, 2010 – Romantic, witty and earthy, the saxophonist and flutist's sound was an extension of his personality.
Listen Abbey Lincoln: The Power Of Voice
August 17, 2010 – Few singers have the emotional depth and versatility of Abbey Lincoln, who died Saturday.
Listen Dave Brubeck: In His Own Sweet Way
December 24, 2008 – Unlike most jazz artists, the pianist and composer enjoyed both talent and commercial success.
Listen Oscar Peterson: Piano Master
December 17, 2008 – The famed virtuoso commanded the entire keyboard with incredible dexterity, drive and precision.
Listen Tito Puente: 'El Rey'
December 10, 2008 – The King of Latin Music was a dynamic percussionist and bandleader — and an irrepressible showman.
Listen Rosemary Clooney: An American Treasure
December 3, 2008 – The singer's simple and exquisite vocal style defined her dynamic and successful career.
Listen Duke Ellington: The Composer, Pt. 2
November 26, 2008 – The bandleader's compositions present an indelible contribution to American music's legacy.
Listen Duke Ellington: The Composer, Pt. 1
November 19, 2008 – The legendary bandleader and composer produced more than a thousand lasting works.
Listen Milt Hinton: The Ultimate Timekeeper
November 12, 2008 – The bassist provided the rhythmic foundation for many jazz greats with his fat booming sound.
Listen Illinois Jacquet: King Of The Screeching Tenor
November 5, 2008 – The saxophonist's wild and full-toned playing style heralded a new approach to the tenor.
Listen Jay 'Hootie' McShann: Kansas City Swingman
October 29, 2008 – The bluesman, bandleader and pianist was a living legacy of Kansas City jazz.
Listen Al Grey: The Last Big Time Plunger
October 21, 2008 – The trombonist developed a unique style by using a plunger to manipulate the sound of his horn.
Listen Anita O'Day: High Times And Hard Times
October 16, 2008 – The singer made an impact with her range, her knack for improvisation and interpreting a lyric.
Listen Artie Shaw: The Reluctant Jazz Star
October 9, 2008 – The clarinetist's ideas were often too modern, and his temperament ill-suited to the role of star.
Listen Ellis Larkins: The Patient Pianist
October 2, 2008 – Larkins was a classically trained master of melody and a subtle accompanist to Ella Fitzgerald.
