It was always strange to me that Remo Palmieri, although he gained some attention during the early days bop, didn’t become a more prominent figure, especially since he was so active for such a long time. Palmieri initially aspired to become an artist, and he began playing guitar in local bands to help pay for his education. He was playing in Nat Jaffe’s Trio by 1942, and was now a full-time musician. Palmieri worked with Red Norvo (1944), Coleman Hawkins (1943), Red Norvo (444) and Billie Holiday (1945). He also recorded with Bird and Diz. Palmieri received an “Esquire new star” award in 1945. He was the first guitarist to expand the ideas of Charlie Christian, but he preferred to be a studio musician. After joining CBS’ staff, he performed in anonymity for 27 years and was eventually relegated to a footnote in jazz history. He appeared on the first recorded version of “Groovin’ High” In later years, Palmieri returned to the stage on an infrequent basis. He recorded with Herb Ellis in 1978, and made a Concord album (his only appearance as a leader) that same year. Remo Palmieri, also known as Palmier, had the opportunity to play with Dick Hyman and Benny Goodman in 1970’s. He also appeared with Swing Reunion in 1985 which resulted in a recording. It is difficult to imagine how important a career he could have had if he had not stayed with jazz.
