. . . or click on the link here for Audio Player – Dizzy Gillespie – Live In Paris – February 5, 1953 – Radio France
This one’s not only rare, it sounds amazing. The legendary Dizzy Gillespie; high-priest of Bop, Crown-Prince of Cool in concert from Paris, recorded on February 5, 1953 by the always amazing Radio France (ORTF at the time).
Extra special is a guest appearance by Sarah Vaughan for one number, who works her customary magic on Embraceable You.
This comes as close to witnessing a historic event as you may find just about anywhere. Dizzy Gillespie, at the height of his powers, playing to an audience who adore him, playing music that was considered cutting edge at the time, sounding as fresh as five minutes ago. It just doesn’t get too much better than this.
From the breathless announcements by the French MC to the frantic count-off by Dizzy this is great stuff, and essential listening if you are fan, a student or just an interested bystander.
History on the fly, with all the energy of crazy discovery – this is what got people excited at the time.
Check it out and turn it up.
Flat out amazing! Thanks for sharing this!
I thought you’d get a kick out of it!