Lester Willis Young
Lester Young, nicknamed "Prez" by Billie Holiday, was a revolutionary tenor saxophonist whose cool, airy tone and melodic approach contrasted with Coleman Hawkins's muscular style. He profoundly influenced cool jazz and all subsequent tenor players.
“I don't like a lot of noise. I like to hear every note.”
— Lester Young
“Every musician should have their own sound. If you sound like someone else, what's the point?”
— Lester Young
“I tell stories with my horn.”
— Lester Young
The President Plays
1952
Pres and Teddy
1956
Lester Swings
1951