Young, Lester Willis (1909-1959), a tenor saxophonist, developed one of the most imitated styles in jazz history. More than any other jazz instrumentalist, Young was responsible for the transition from the “hot jazz” style in the 1930’s to the more relaxed, behind-the-beat approach usually known as “cool.” He did his best work while playing with the Count Basie band from 1936 to 1940. His solos on “Oh, Lady Be Good” (1936) and “Lester Leaps In” (1939) as well as his background playing for singer Billie Holiday were especially influential.
Young was born on Aug. 27, 1909, in Woodville, Mississippi. He was nicknamed “Prez.” He played with King Oliver, Walter Page, and Fletcher Henderson before joining Basie. In the 1940’s and 1950’s, Young often played on “Jazz at the Philharmonic” concert tours. The last years of his life were tragic. He became mentally ill and was often hospitalized. He died on March 15, 1959.
