“Hootie Blues” – Jay McShann and his Orchestra (1941) Featuring Charlie Parker

While technically not the first recording of Charlie Parker, this was the first released recording that he appeared on with a solo – and an arranger credit.

Parker’s tone is unmistakeable and starts around the 0:36 mark. He is relaxed and confident – with a few flourishes within his blues lines that serve as foreshadowing for his later work.

Jay McShann had been active in the Kanasas City music scene throughout the 1930s, and he formed his own unit in 1939. His nickname was “Hootie” – so this tune is his blues.

Recorded in Dallas, Texas on April 30, 1941.
Released as Decca 8559.

Credits:
Jay McShann – piano, leader
Buddy Anderson, Harold Bruce, Orville Minor – trumpet
Joe Taswell Baird – trombone
John Jackson, Charlie Parker – alto sax
Harold Ferguson, Bob Mabane – tenor sax
Gene Ramey – bass
Gus Johnson – drums
Walter Brown – vocals