[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 18 (Thursday, February 8, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E145]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       THE DEATH OF J.J. JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR.

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 8, 2001

  Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to the life and work of 
jazz great James ``J.J.'' Johnson. A legendary trombone player, J.J. 
Johnson made an indelible mark on bebop jazz. He died on February 4th 
at the age of 77.
  During his six decade career, Johnson played with some of the most 
influential musicians in jazz, including Benny Carter, Dizzy Gillepsie 
and, one of my personal favorites, Charlie Parker. Early in his career, 
he joined Benny Carter's big band and recorded his first professional 
work with it. Johnson revolutionized the playing of the trombone, 
ensuring its place in the world of jazz music. He was one of the first 
musicians to successfully integrate the trombone into the intricate 
rhythms and phrasing of bebop. In later years, he worked as a composer 
and arranger, and during the 1970s wrote scores for several television 
shows and feature films.
  Jazz is a national treasure and true American art form. In turn, jazz 
musicians should be lauded for their many contributions to American 
culture. It is in that vein that I salute the life and work of one of 
the jazz greats, James ``J.J.'' Johnson.

                          ____________________