Posts in the Category: Clarence Jelly Johnson

Clarence M. Jones Player Piano Rolls Part 2 – Jazz and Blues

Posted in - Biography & Clarence Jelly Johnson & Historical & Piano Roll on May 11th 2017 0 Comments

Clarence M. Jones was one of those rare musicians able to adapt both his playing and compositional styles to new musical trends.  As Jones’ piano roll recordings are the only known examples of his playing prior to 1923, these provide valuable insight into his adaptability and innovative ideas.  Moreover, they clearly demonstrate how …

Clarence “Jelly” Johnson Player Piano Rolls Part 2 – Popular Songs

Posted in - Biography & Clarence Jelly Johnson & Historical & Piano Roll on April 27th 2017 0 Comments

“Hawaiian Nightingale.”  A very simple although lovely waltz by Vaughn DeLeath.  Hardly to be considered within any discussion of jazz/blues or hot music.  And yet, Clarence Johnson’s performance is a salient reminder that great talent produces great music. Johnson’s playing of this otherwise commonplace, sentimental tune is uniquely his own; containing his jazz …

Clarence “Jelly” Johnson Player Piano Rolls Part 1 – Jazz and Blues

Posted in - Biography & Clarence Jelly Johnson & Historical & Piano Roll on April 27th 2017 0 Comments

Although Clarence Johnson left us no piano solo disc recordings, no band recordings, and only about two dozen vocal accompaniment sides, he still remains one of the most influential artists in the history of Chicago South Side Piano.  Unlike Blythe, who was prolific in all forms of recordings, Johnson’s personal playing style is …