Dexter Gordon

Dexter Gordon- Dexter Gordon played a strong role in the up rise of bebop. His father, Dr. Frank Gordon, introduced him to the world of music. As one of the first African American doctors in Los Angeles he was doctor to the famed artist: Duke Ellington. This inspirational figure pushed him to begin playing an instrument at the age of 13. By 15 he was playing alto saxaphone, and by 17 he had switched to tenor. After high school Dexter had the honor of playing with Lee young (Lester Young's little brother). His career skyrocketed when he met and sat with Lester Young while touring with one of his first bands. In 1944 Dexter scored a spot in Louis Armstrong's Orchestra. He recorded some of his first major material with them. By 1945 he was recording some of the most innovative bebop to date. By the late 40's he was playing with the best. Charlie Parker, Dexter Gordon, and Miles Davis created the most monumental bebop movement albums. His legendary arrangements with some of the greatest puts him up in ranks with the best.