Reggie Johnson, one of the most influential and versatile jazz bassists of his generation, passed away on September 11, 2020, at the age of 79. He died in Bern, Switzerland, where he had been living since the mid-1980s. The cause of his death was not disclosed.
A Remarkable Career in Jazz
Johnson was born in Owensboro, Kentucky, on December 13, 1940. He started playing trombone in school and army bands, but switched to double bass in the mid-1960s. He soon became a sought-after sideman for many jazz luminaries, such as Bill Dixon, Archie Shepp, Sun Ra, Lonnie Liston Smith, Stanley Cowell, Bobby Hutcherson, Harold Land, Blue Mitchell, Walter Bishop Jr., Sonny Rollins, Sonny Stitt, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Art Pepper, Kenny Burrell, Clark Terry, The Crusaders, Johnny Coles, and Frank Wess.
He also joined Art Blakey’s band for a month-long residency at the Five Spot Café in New York in December 1965, and recorded the live album Buttercorn Lady with a lineup that included Blakey, Frank Mitchell, Chuck Mangione, Keith Jarrett, and Johnson. This was one of his most memorable performances as a member of the legendary Jazz Messengers.
Johnson was known for his warm tone, solid groove, and inventive solos. He could play in various styles and settings, from hard bop to free jazz to fusion. He was also a composer and arranger who contributed original tunes and arrangements to some of the albums he played on.
A New Life in Europe
In the mid-1980s, Johnson moved to Europe, where he continued to work with prominent jazz artists such as Johnny Griffin, Horace Parlan, Monty Alexander, Kenny Barron, Tom Harrell, Phil Woods, Cedar Walton, Alvin Queen, Jesse Davis, Freddie Redd and Clark Terry. He also led his own groups and recorded several albums as a leader or co-leader.
He settled in Bern, Switzerland, where he became a respected figure in the local jazz scene. He taught at the Swiss Jazz School and mentored many young musicians. He also performed regularly at various clubs and festivals in Switzerland and other European countries.
Johnson was widely admired and loved by his peers and fans for his musical talent and his humble personality. He received several awards and honors for his contribution to jazz music. He was also featured in several documentaries and books about jazz history.
A Legacy That Lives On
Reggie Johnson’s death is a great loss for the jazz community and the music world in general. He left behind a rich and diverse discography that showcases his mastery of the double bass and his artistic vision. He also inspired and influenced generations of bassists and other musicians who learned from his playing and his teaching.
He will be remembered as one of the greatest jazz bassists of all time and a true ambassador of jazz music. His music will live on in the hearts and minds of those who appreciate his artistry and his spirit.
