Eddie Jefferson, born 3 August 1918 and died 9 May 1979. He was a jazz singer who founded vocalese. This is where a singer sings lyrics to an instrumental solo. Although “Moody’s Mood for Love”, his most well-known composition, was actually recorded by King Pleasure who cites Jefferson’s influence. His hits “Parker’s Mood”, and “Filthy Mcnasty” were also his songs. Jefferson’s last recorded performance took place at Chicago’s Joe Segal Jazz Showcase. At that performance, his band was Richie Cole (alto-sax), John Campbell (“piano”), Kelly Sill (bass), and Joel Spencer (“drums”). Rhapsody Films released the video of the performance. Tragically, Jefferson, 60 years old, was killed in a shooting outside a Detroit nightclub. This was part a tour Jefferson was on with alto sax player Cole. Their opening night in Detroit was at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge. This jazz club was established in the 20’s. It has hosted everyone from Dexter Gordon and Sonny Stitt. Eddie Jefferson was shot and killed on Baker’s opening night on May 8, 1979. Cole, his band leader, was also present at the scene. He was then shot as he walked out of Baker’s. Detroit police later spotted a late-model Lincoln Continental speeding off the scene. Later, he was identified as a former Jefferson dancer who had been fired from a gig. He was not able to provide enough evidence to warrant his imprisonment and was eventually released. Text contributed by users is available under Creative Commons By–SA License. It may also be available under GNU FDL.
