Chris Barber: The Trombone Maestro Who Shaped British Jazz
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born on April 17, 1930, in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, England, Donald Christopher Barber, better known as Chris Barber, was destined for a life in music. His parents, both of whom were academically inclined, nurtured his interest in music from a young age. Barber began learning the violin at the age of seven and later attended the Guildhall School of Music in London, where he studied the trombone and double bass.
The Formation of the Chris Barber Jazz Band
In 1950, Barber formed the New Orleans Jazz Band, a group of up to eight musicians, including Alexis Korner on guitar and Barber on double bass. The band played both traditional jazz and blues tunes, marking the beginning of Barber’s professional music career. In 1952, Barber and clarinetist Monty Sunshine formed a band, which later included trumpeter Pat Halcox and became known as Ken Colyer’s Jazzmen. The band made its debut in Copenhagen, Denmark, in April 1953.
The Skiffle Craze and Rock Island Line
Barber’s band was one of the first British bands to feature skiffle music, a genre characterized by its use of homemade or improvised instruments. Lonnie Donegan, a member of Barber’s band, performed the skiffle anthem “Rock Island Line” with Barber, and the song went on to become a million-selling hit in 1956. This success sparked a skiffle craze that helped launch the careers of many UK bands, including the Beatles.
Collaborations and Contributions to Jazz
Throughout his career, Barber collaborated with many stars, from the bop-based saxophonist Joe Harriott to blues celebrities such as Muddy Waters and Sonny Terry. He also worked with contemporary artists like Van Morrison, Mark Knopfler, and Dr. John. Barber’s bands were known for their blend of traditional jazz with Duke Ellington’s music, rock ‘n’ roll, and R&B, reflecting Barber’s eclectic musical tastes.
Legacy and Influence
Chris Barber passed away on March 2, 2021, leaving behind a rich musical legacy. His contributions to jazz music, particularly in the UK, are immeasurable. From his early days in the New Orleans Jazz Band to his successful career as a bandleader, Barber’s influence on jazz and popular music remains undeniable. His ability to blend different genres and his commitment to promoting jazz music have made him a significant figure in the history of British music.
- “Bourbon Street Parade” – This is one of the most famous Dixieland songs performed by Chris Barber. It showcases his talent as a trombonist and his love for traditional jazz.
- “When The Saints Go Marching In” – This song, performed with Otillie Patterson, is a classic that showcases Barber’s ability to bring new life to traditional jazz tunes.
- “Just A Closer Walk With Thee” – This song, performed live in Sesjun in 1997, is a testament to Barber’s ability to captivate audiences with his performances.
- “Bobby Shaftoe” – This song is a popular track from Barber’s “The Greatest Hits” album. It showcases his unique style and his ability to make any song his own.
- “Merrydown Blues” – Another track from “The Greatest Hits”, this song is a testament to Barber’s love for the blues and his ability to infuse it with his unique jazz style.
- “The World Is Waiting for the Sunrise” – This song, also from “The Greatest Hits”, showcases Barber’s ability to bring a fresh perspective to classic songs.
- “I Never Knew What a Girl Could Do” – This song is a testament to Barber’s versatility as a musician and his ability to explore different genres.
- “Oh Didn’t He Ramble” – This song, from “The Greatest Hits”, is a classic jazz tune that showcases Barber’s talent as a bandleader.
- “The Girls Go Crazy About the Way I Walk” – This song is a testament to Barber’s ability to infuse his music with a sense of fun and energy.
- “I’d Love It” – This song, from “The Greatest Hits”, showcases Barber’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to create memorable melodies.
