Along Came Betty – Art Blakey

In 1958 Benny Golson was inspired by the woman he was dating to write “Along Came Betty”.  It has since become a favorite of saxophonists, guitarists and piano players.  Eventually, Jon Hendricks wrote some lyrics. The first recording of “Along Came Betty” was on the seminal hard bop album “Moanin’” by Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers.  It featured an all-Philadelphia cast of Art Blakey (drums), Lee Morgan (trumpet), Benny Golson (tenor saxophone), Jymie Merritt (bass) and Bobby Timmons (piano).

The ensemble for this updated performance consists of Javon Jackson (Tenor), Phill Harper (trumpet), Benny Green (piano), Robin Eubanks (trombone), Peter Washington (bass) and of course Art Blakey (drums).

Work Song – Cannonball Adderley Quintet

Get ready to be blown away!  This live rendition of the Work Song was recorded in 1963.  It features Cannonball Adderley on alto sax with what he called “one of his better solos”.  Also Nat Adderley plays cornet, Joe Zawinul piano, Sam Jones bass, and Louis Hayes is on drums.