Mezz Mezzrow

Jazz Clarinetist and Saxophonist: Mezz Mezzrow was an American jazz clarinetist and saxophonist who played a significant role in the development of jazz music during the early to mid-20th century. Born Milton Mesirow on March 9, 1899, in Chicago, Mezzrow was introduced to jazz at a young age and quickly became enamored with the music. He began playing the clarinet and later added the tenor saxophone to his repertoire, establishing himself as a versatile and talented instrumentalist.

Association with the Harlem Jazz Scene: Mezz Mezzrow is closely associated with the vibrant jazz scene of Harlem in the 1920s and 1930s. He became an integral part of the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural and artistic movement that celebrated African American art, literature, and music. Mezzrow immersed himself in the world of jazz clubs, speakeasies, and jam sessions, collaborating with some of the era's most prominent musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Benny Goodman.

Champion of Traditional Jazz and "Hot" Music: Mezzrow was a staunch advocate for traditional jazz and what he referred to as "hot" music, which emphasized improvisation, syncopation, and a lively, swinging rhythm. He rejected the commercialization of jazz and sought to preserve its roots in African American culture and tradition. Mezzrow's passionate commitment to the art form earned him respect and admiration within the jazz community, and he became known as a leading figure in the revival of traditional jazz during the 1930s and 1940s.

Cultural Icon and Controversial Figure: Mezzrow's colorful personality and unconventional lifestyle made him a cultural icon and a controversial figure in the jazz world. He embraced African American culture and identified closely with the black community, adopting the nickname "Mezz" and referring to himself as a "voluntary Negro". Mezzrow's close association with black musicians and his outspoken views on racial identity and cultural appropriation garnered both praise and criticism from his contemporaries.

Author and Memoirist: In addition to his musical career, Mezz Mezzrow was also an author and memoirist. He wrote an autobiography titled "Really the Blues", which was published in 1946. The book offers a candid and colorful account of Mezzrow's life and experiences in the jazz world, providing valuable insights into the cultural and social dynamics of the Harlem Renaissance era. "Really the Blues" remains a celebrated work of jazz literature and a testament to Mezzrow's enduring influence on the world of music and culture.