Lu Watters

Lu Watters was a prominent figure in the early jazz revival movement of the 1940s and 1950s. Here are some key facts about this influential performer:

1. Pioneer of West Coast Traditional Jazz:

   • Lu Watters was a bandleader, trumpeter, and promoter who played a crucial role in reviving interest in traditional New Orleans jazz on the West Coast of the United States. He was a key figure in the San Francisco Bay Area jazz scene during the 1940s and 1950s.
   • Watters and his band, the Yerba Buena Jazz Band, were instrumental in popularizing the traditional jazz styles of the 1920s, including the music of early jazz pioneers such as Jelly Roll Morton and King Oliver. They sought to preserve and celebrate the authentic sound and spirit of New Orleans jazz in an era dominated by swing and big band music.

2. Formation of the Yerba Buena Jazz Band:

   • In 1939, Lu Watters co-founded the Yerba Buena Jazz Band with clarinetist Bob Helm. Named after the historical name for the area that would later become San Francisco, the band aimed to recreate the vibrant and lively sound of early New Orleans jazz.
   • The Yerba Buena Jazz Band quickly gained a following for their energetic performances and authentic renditions of classic jazz tunes. Their music captured the spirit of the New Orleans jazz tradition, featuring collective improvisation, polyphonic ensemble playing, and spirited solos.

3. Influence on the Jazz Revival Movement:

   • Lu Watters and the Yerba Buena Jazz Band played a pivotal role in sparking a nationwide revival of interest in traditional jazz during the post-World War II era. Their recordings, live performances, and advocacy for early jazz styles inspired a new generation of musicians and jazz enthusiasts.
   • The band's influence extended beyond the West Coast, as they helped popularize the traditional jazz revival movement across the United States. Their recordings, such as the influential "Lu Watters' Yerba Buena Jazz Band" albums, introduced audiences to the joyous and infectious sounds of early jazz.

4. The Hambone Kelly's Era:

   • One of the most significant venues for Lu Watters and the Yerba Buena Jazz Band was Hambone Kelly's in El Cerrito, California. The band held a residency at the club from 1941 to 1943, drawing enthusiastic crowds of jazz aficionados and dancers.
   • Hambone Kelly's became a hub for traditional jazz enthusiasts, providing a lively and welcoming atmosphere for fans to enjoy Watters' spirited performances. The residency at Hambone Kelly's cemented Watters' reputation as a leading figure in the traditional jazz revival movement.

5. Legacy and Lasting Impact:

   • Lu Watters' contributions to the preservation and promotion