The subtle Jimmy Rowles, long known for his ability to find the right chord for any situation, was highly sought after as an accompanist and soloist. After performing in Seattle’s local bands, Rowles made the move to Los Angeles in 1940. He worked with Slim Gaillard and Lester Young as well as Benny Goodman and Woody Herman. After his military service, he returned home to Herman in time to play with the first Herd, recorded with Benny Goodman and had stints with Tommy Dorsey and Les Brown. Rowles was a studio musician who appeared in many settings during the 1950s and 1960s. However, his best-known performances were those of Peggy Lee and Billie Holiday. He moved to New York in 1973 to record more jazz arrangements (including duets featuring Stan Getz). But he returned home to California after touring with Ella Fitzgerald from 1981 to 1983. He was a household name with “The Peacocks”, and Rowles recorded many records throughout his career, including one with his daughter, Stacy Rowles, a flugelhornist. Allmusic
