Milt Hinton

Milt Hinton, also known as "The Judge", was a highly influential and widely respected jazz bassist, photographer, and educator. Here are several facts about him:

1. Early Life and Musical Beginnings: Milt Hinton was born on June 23, 1910, in Vicksburg, Mississippi. He grew up in a musical family and began playing the guitar at a young age. Hinton later switched to the bass, and by his teenage years, he was performing professionally in jazz bands in Chicago. His early experiences playing with renowned musicians such as Art Tatum and Jabbo Smith helped shape his musical style and solidify his passion for jazz.

2. Pioneering Bassist: Milt Hinton was known for his innovative approach to the double bass, which combined impeccable technique with a deep sense of swing and groove. He was a master of both the pizzicato and arco styles of playing, and his impeccable timekeeping and melodic sensibility made him a highly sought-after sideman. Hinton's bass playing provided the foundation for countless recordings and performances throughout his career, earning him a reputation as one of the finest bassists in jazz history.

3. Prolific Recording Career: Over the course of his career, Milt Hinton appeared on thousands of recordings as a sideman, contributing his distinctive bass lines to a wide range of jazz albums and sessions. He recorded with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and many others. Hinton's impeccable sense of rhythm and versatility made him an indispensable asset in the studio, and his bass can be heard on countless classic jazz recordings.

4. Photography and Visual Arts: In addition to his musical talents, Milt Hinton was also an accomplished photographer. He began taking photographs in the 1930s as a way to document his life on the road as a touring musician. Over the years, Hinton amassed an extensive collection of photographs documenting the jazz world and its legendary figures. His photographs offer a unique and intimate glimpse into the lives of jazz musicians, capturing candid moments both onstage and off.

5. Legacy and Impact: Milt Hinton's contributions to jazz, both as a musician and photographer, have had a lasting impact on the genre. He was a beloved figure in the jazz community, admired for his talent, generosity, and warm personality. Hinton's photographs provide a valuable historical record of jazz history, preserving the legacy of the musicians he worked with and offering insight into the vibrant culture of the jazz world. His influence continues to be felt by musi