Lionel Hampton Biography, Photos and Posters

Lionel Hampton

Biography

Born: April 20, 1908?
Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky
Instrument: Vibes
Music Training: Self taught percussionist
Bands and Orchestras: Benny Goodman Quartet, Lionel Hampton Band
Signature Song: "Flying Home"
Lionel Hampton biography: There seems to be some confusion as to the date and year that Lionel Hampton was born. It is certain, however, that in 1916 his family moved to Chicago where he began his music career as a drummer playing with lesser known bands. In the late 20s he was playing in Culver City, CA where he took part in several recording sessions with Louis Armstrong who urged him to take up the vibraphone. He soon became the world's foremost player on that instrument and eventually hooked up with the Benny Goodman group. In 1940 he organized his own orchestra. His group turned out such hit tunes as "Sunny Side of the Street," "Central Avenue Breakdown," his signature tune, "Flying Home," and "Hamp's Boogie-Woogie." Besides being a flambouyant performer he also penned over 200 songs like: "Flying Home," "Evil Gal Blues," "Midnight Sun" and the major symphony "King David Suite." Under President Eisenhower he toured the world as a good will ambassador for the United States. During the 80s he worked at the University of Idaho as an educator where they named the music school the Lionel Hampton School of Music.
Died: August 31, 2002

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