Bill Coleman

Bill Coleman, recognized for his mellow-toned swing trumpet work, singular voice, and lyrical phrasing, pursued a reliable path without attaining major renown. He first reached New York in 1927 as a member of Cecil and Lloyd Scott’s band, the group that hosted his debut recordings. Engagements with Luis Russell from 1929 to 1932 and with Charlie Johnson followed, after which he sailed to France in 1933 alongside Lucky Millinder. Further sessions paired him with Fats Waller in 1934 and placed him in Teddy Hill’s Orchestra from 1934 to 1935, yet he chose to settle in France for the first time that same year. While abroad he led frequent dates that signaled his full artistic arrival, appeared regularly with Willie Lewis’ Orchestra, and joined Django Reinhardt on several recordings. His wanderings carried him to Bombay; he then remained in Egypt from 1938 through 1940 in Herman Chittison’s company. Back in New York he performed with Benny Carter, Teddy Wilson, Andy Kirk, Mary Lou Williams, and John Kirby between 1940 and 1945, and he also recorded with both Lester Young and Coleman Hawkins in 1943. Preferring the European way of life, Coleman spent time in bands directed by Sy Oliver and Billy Kyle before relocating permanently to France in 1948, remaining active and cutting records at a steady pace until his death in 1981.