Tribute to Ray Brown

Tribute to Ray Brown

Renowned Ray Brown’s Passing

Ray Brown, who had visited Japan with his trio for the 2001 “Fujitsu Concord Jazz Festival,” showcasing his vitality, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 2nd this year in Indianapolis, at the age of 75.

During his lifetime, his collaboration with Oscar Peterson in the Golden Trio, from 1951 to 1966, remains his most impactful period, in my opinion. In the peak year of 1960, he was coerced into recording with Cannonball Adderley, alongside Wes Montgomery, notably in “Cannonball Adderley And The Poll-Winners” (Riverside RLP-355). Wes, at 37, and Ray, at 34, played subtly but left a strong impression, overshadowed by their boss.

Ray, including his time in the Golden Trio, frequently collaborated with guitarists like Herb Ellis, Kenny Burrell, and others, suggesting a fondness for guitar sounds.

From 1994 onwards, Ray gathered longtime musical companions and successors for a series of recordings:

1. “RAY BROWN TRIO / Some Of My Best Friends Are…The Piano Players / CD-83373” (1994)
2. “RAY BROWN TRIO / Some Of My Best Friends Are…The Sax Players / CD-83388” (1995)
3. “RAY BROWN TRIO / Some Of My Best Friends Are…Singers / CD-83441” (1997-98)
4. “RAY BROWN TRIO / Some Of My Best Friends Are…The Trumpet Players / CD-83388” (2000)

Coincidentally, the fifth installment in this series was released in July, shortly after Ray’s passing, effectively serving as his final work (recorded in January-February 2000).

I believe if Wes were still alive, he would have been one of the first to step forward. Oh, the cruelty of fate. I sense that Ray was well aware of this, evidenced by his collaboration with Bruce Forman, who had made a tribute composition “Blues For Wes” during the 1980s on the Muse label, among other guitarists like Herb Ellis, Kenny Burrell, and Russell Malone, all delivering splendid performances. It’s a recommended CD for guitar enthusiasts (featuring many Wes-style performances).

Well, perhaps in heaven, they are reunited, performing duets once again. Rest in peace.