William Manuel Johnson

Bassist

Birthday August 10, 1872

Birth Sign Leo

Birthplace Louisiana

DEATH DATE Dec 3, 1972 (100)

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About

Pioneer of the slap style of string bass playing and founder of King Oliver's Creole Jazz Band.

Before Fame

He started slapping the strings of his bass because he broke his bow while on tour.

Trivia

He founded and managed The Original Creole Orchestra, the first jazz band to leave New Orleans and go on successful tours.

Family Life

His brother was a musician and his sister was involved with Jelly Roll Morton.

Associated With

He taught Milt Hinton and many other younger musicians how to slap.

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