Eddie Condon's

Eddie Condon

Eddie Condon and fellow musicians at his club in New York, June 1946

Eddie Condon was an influential American jazz banjoist, guitarist, and bandleader. He was a prominent figure in the development of the Chicago jazz style and later became a key player in the Dixieland revival of the 1940s and 1950s. Condon's career spanned several decades, during which he collaborated with many of the leading jazz musicians of his time.

Early Life

Albert Edwin Condon was born on November 16, 1905, in Goodland, Indiana. He grew up in a musical family and began playing the ukulele at a young age before switching to the banjo. Condon moved to Chicago in the early 1920s, where he became involved in the burgeoning jazz scene.

Career

Chicago Jazz Scene

In Chicago, Condon quickly established himself as a talented musician and became associated with the "Chicagoans," a group of young white musicians who were heavily influenced by the New Orleans jazz style. He played with notable musicians such as Bix Beiderbecke, Frank Teschemacher, and Gene Krupa.

Move to New York

In the late 1920s, Condon moved to New York City, where he continued to build his reputation as a jazz musician. He played with Red Nichols and his Five Pennies and became a regular at the famous Minton's Playhouse.

Eddie Condon's Club

Tony Parenti, Wild Bill Davison, and Eddie Condon at Condon's club, June 1946

In the 1940s, Condon opened his own club, "Eddie Condon's," in New York City. The club became a hub for jazz musicians and fans, hosting performances by many of the era's top artists. Condon's club was known for its informal jam sessions and lively atmosphere.

Dixieland Revival

Condon was a key figure in the Dixieland revival movement, which sought to bring traditional jazz styles back into the mainstream. He recorded extensively during this period, producing a series of successful albums that featured collaborations with musicians like Wild Bill Davison, Pee Wee Russell, and Bud Freeman.

Musical Style

Condon's musical style was characterized by a strong sense of rhythm and a deep appreciation for the traditional jazz idiom. He was known for his ability to bring together musicians from different backgrounds and create cohesive, exciting performances.

Legacy

Eddie Condon's contributions to jazz were significant, both as a musician and as a promoter of the genre. His club and recordings helped to popularize Dixieland jazz and influenced generations of musicians. Condon passed away on August 4, 1973, but his impact on the jazz world continues to be felt.

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Pee Wee Russell and others at Eddie Condon's, between 1946 and 1948

Related Pages

• Chicago jazz
• Dixieland
• New Orleans jazz
• Bix Beiderbecke
• Pee Wee Russell