Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 7, Trombone Section: Paul McKee

Trombonist Paul McKee has been well known among jazz musicians for many years. He joined Woody Herman's band in 1984 and has played on many Grammy-nominated recordings with the band. Paul has taught at several universities including DePaul, Youngstown State, Northern Illinois, the University of Missouri at Kansas City and Florida State. While going to school in Kansas, my friend Clint Ashlock hipped me to Paul when he was studying at UMKC. I remember Clint saying "man, you gotta hear this guy play the trombone.... and the arrangements!" Upon doing my homework I found out just how great Paul was... and then some! Paul's debut recording as a leader Gallery  features performances by Carl Fontana, Bobby Shew, Tim Ries and Ron Stout. He also has many published arrangements. Two of my favorites are The Messenger and Beautiful Love.

When I moved to Colorado I got to hear Paul regularly at the UNC Jazz Festival. When he took the job at the University of Colorado I was excited he would be here permanently and really hoped we would work together. One of the first gigs I got to play with him was with another Iowa native Dick Oatts.... a memorable evening to say the least! It's always a joy to make music with Paul. He brings it no matter the situation. On Clockwise Paul plays two burning solos on Bolivia and Fiesta Español. Outstanding playing!

On another note, I have added some wonderful recordings to my collection just by following Paul on Facebook. I regularly check in on his posts to get new listening recommendations.

Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton available everywhere February 17. 


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