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Arthur Rosch's avatar

I saw Billy Higgins play with Sonny Rollins and Henry Grimes at the Museum Of Modern Art, outside in the courtyard. He smiled throughout. Playing the most stripped down drum kit possible, he swung and smiled, swung and smiled. What a treat!

Bentley family's avatar

Thanks Todd! Our son learned not only how to play bass in your lessons but also life lessons that are still benefiting him today. Everyone will benefit from your future posts!

Todd Coolman's avatar

Thank you for the kind words. I imagine your son is currently thriving, thanks in large part to your efforts.

Doug Munro's avatar

This is a great Idea Todd! I look forward to getting your next installment.

Eastern Rebellion's avatar

Mom always knows best! :)

Peter Coppock's avatar

Jo Jones and Billy Higgins never stopped smiling when they played. How could you resist their music? Jo seemed to have a different expression for every accent he played. Look forward to your expanding blog, and thank you for posting on Sunday - seems no one else does.

Todd Coolman's avatar

Thanks, Peter. I’m looking forward to the next phase.

Peter Coppock's avatar

Smiling Billy just reminded me of something Chubby and Duffy Jackson always said: “We’re going to put a grin on the groove, and aim the beat at your feet!” Ha!

Arndt Meiler.'s avatar

The smiling Mr Higgins?

There are a few ,the one and only.,

Billy Higgins was my one and only for years.

Living in a far away land the chances to listen to the one and only live was hazardous.

I read about his illness and operations in the jazz magazine. So I thought that I would never be able to hear him live.

But at the yearly jazz festival Mingus Big Band performed. I didn’t check who was playing, but the smiling drummer looked familiar. I borrowed a program and read the magic name.

Billy Higgins.

I think he passed away about six months later.

Lawrence Silverman's avatar

I look forward to reading your expanded format Todd❤️🎶🎶