Gigi Gryce (Basheer Qusim)
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Although out of print, a limited number of copies of the award winning biodiscography, "Rat Race Blues: The Musical Life of Gigi Gryce" are available for purchase here. Misinformation about Gryce abounds and rumors have circulated for decades. Years of research and dozens of interviews were conducted for this book, resulting in a biography that, for the first time, tells the true story of this often overlooked figure and illuminates his contributions to one of the richest periods in jazz history. Included are a foreword by Benny Golson, a detailed discography, an index of recordings of Gryce's compositions, an appendix cataloging the holdings of Gryce's publishing companies and over 30 photographs, many never published previously. Buy now while supplies last! |
- Additions and
corrections to "Rat Race Blues: The Musical Life of Gigi
Gryce"
- A complete listing of significant milestones, events and reviews involving Gigi Gryce and the book
The saxophonist, arranger and composer Gigi Gryce (1925-1983) is another figure of the 1950s whose contributions are overlooked and worthy of reinvestigation. To this end, Michael Fitzgerald and I have undertaken a substantial research project aimed at clearing up many of the misconceptions which surround the mysterious Gryce (known by his Muslim name, Basheer Qusim in his later years as an educator) and resurrecting his music. Over 70 interviews have been conducted with musicians, relatives and observers of the music scene during the relatively short period when he was active.
While known mainly for his consummate writing skills, Gryce was also an original although largely unrecognized player whose solos manifested great lyricism and structure. His style was clearly influenced by Charlie Parker but his tone and conception were unique when viewed within the context of the many fine alto saxophonists of his day.
Gryce's best known composition is "Minority" which has been frequently recorded. Many of his other works such as "Nica's Tempo," "Up in Quincy's Room" and "Shabozz," written in the early 1950s, exhibit unusual forms and harmonic structures and presage later developments in jazz composition. "Social Call," with lyrics by Jon Hendricks, has been performed by many singers including the late Betty Carter. Gryce's catalog is published by Second Floor Music.
An article, "Emotional Eloquence - An Historical Overview of Gigi Gryce," including a selected discography, written by Michael Fitzgerald and myself, was published in the Jan./Feb., 1999 issue (No. 283) of Coda Magazine, pp. 26-30.
On November 16, 2000, Michael Fitzgerald and I gave a presentation on Gryce at the Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies monthly jazz research roundtable entitled, "Gigi Gryce: Fact and Fiction."
Important links involving Gigi Gryce:
The Gigi Gryce CD Discography
David Griffith's Gigi Gryce web siteIf you have any questions, comments or information regarding Gigi Gryce, please email me.
- A complete listing of significant milestones, events and reviews involving Gigi Gryce and the book