About
One of the Big Band Era's greatest jazz saxophonists. He nurtured a longtime collaboration with Duke Ellington.
Before Fame
He was a self-taught piano performer before taking an interest in the saxophone. His nickname was "Rabbit" for his unusual speed and ability to escape truant officers.
Trivia
He worked with several other important jazz artists, including Willie Cook, Roy Eldridge, and Harold Baker.
Family Life
He grew up with baritone saxophonist Harry Carney and saxophonists Charlie Holmes and Howard E. Johnson. He fathered two children, Johnny Jr. and Lorna, with wife Edith Cue.
Associated With
His skills were admired and revered by such luminaries as Ellington, Benny Goodman, and Charlie Parker.
