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Sonny Payne was a renowned jazz drummer, best known for his dynamic and energetic drumming style. Born on May 4, 1926, in New York City, Payne came from a musical family; his father was the celebrated trumpeter Chris Columbus. He began playing the drums at an early age and honed his skills throughout his teenage years.
Payne gained prominence in the 1950s as a member of Count Basie's Orchestra, where he was a key component in defining the band's powerful swing sound. Joining Basie in 1954, Payne’s drumming was characterized by his explosive style, often marked by impressive solos and dramatic flourishes. His ability to maintain a rock-solid rhythm while infusing the music with energy made him a favorite among both musicians and audiences.
His time with Count Basie was marked by several notable recordings, including "April in Paris" and "The Atomic Mr. Basie." Payne’s drumming on tracks like "Shiny Stockings" and "The Kid from Red Bank" showcased his impeccable timing and technical skill, while his theatrical stick tricks and charismatic stage presence became his signature.
Though his work with Basie remains his most celebrated, Payne also played with other jazz greats like Harry James and Illinois Jacquet. He remained active in the jazz scene throughout his career, continuing to inspire drummers with his unique approach to the instrument until his death in 1979.
Sonny Payne's contributions to jazz, particularly in the realm of big band drumming, remain influential. His drumming set a standard for technical mastery combined with showmanship, making him one of the most respected drummers of his era.
Offered is an original 8” x 10” TYPE I photograph of Sonny Payne playing at Charlie Parker’s Birdland Jazz club on February 7, 1955. This original print derived from Popsie’s personal archive and stamped on back with his iconic stamp that he used in the 1940s/50s. ORIGINAL photos of Jazz musicians are rarely seen, as opposed to promotional photos put out by the record companies.
About photographer, William “Popsie” Randolph -
William "Popsie" Randolph was an iconic photographer, best known for capturing the spirit of the jazz and entertainment scenes during the mid-20th century. Born in 1920, he grew up in New York City. He started out at as a member of the Benny Goodman Orchestra and then moved into management. He later would build his career as one of the most prominent music photographers of his era.
Randolph’s work spans several decades, from the 1940s through the 1980s, and features many of the greatest musicians and entertainers of the time. His portfolio is a treasure trove of images that documented the world of jazz, Broadway, and popular music. He was a fixture at recording sessions, concerts, and nightclub performances, photographing luminaries such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis Presley.
What made Randolph’s work particularly distinctive was his ability to capture not just the public personas of these figures but the candid, behind-the-scenes moments that offered a glimpse into the lives of these legends. His images often convey a sense of intimacy and artistry, providing a window into the cultural movements of the time.
Randolph was highly sought after by both artists and record labels, often working with major players like Columbia Records and RCA. His work appeared in newspapers, magazines, and album covers, further cementing his reputation as a photographer who had unparalleled access to some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Despite his immense contributions to documenting American music history, Popsie Randolph remained somewhat behind the scenes himself, letting his photographs speak for him. He passed away in 1978, leaving behind a rich visual legacy that continues to inspire both musicians and photographers alike.
His photographs have been exhibited in various galleries and remain a valuable resource for understanding the cultural fabric of mid-20th-century America.
Item: 13634
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