Directed by Scotty Barnhart
Guest Vocalist: Carmen Bradford

William “Count” Basie launched his iconic orchestra in Kansas City in 1935, propelling it to fame as one of the definitive ensembles of the Big Band Era, epitomizing the sound of Kansas City swing. The Basie Orchestra attracted the top names in jazz to perform with it, from Billie Holiday and Joe Williams to Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennet and Ella Fitzgerald. Eighty-four years later, the late Basie’s orchestra is still going strong, still boasting members hand-picked by Basie who have been with the group for more than 30 years. The 17-member group, winner of 18 Grammy Awards, serves up that signature, feel-good Basie sound: foot-stomping swing, soaring dynamic contrasts and very, very danceable rhythms.

“The core Basie virtues remain intact: meticulous musicianship, tight comradeship, buoyant swing.”

– DownBeat Magazine