Biography
Bobby Shew stands out as an exceptionally skilled trumpeter with an uncommon knack for anchoring lead parts in large ensembles while also commanding attention as a featured soloist in smaller lineups. His approach stems from the hard bop lineage. Though he later emerged as a key figure in jazz education, Shew developed his abilities almost entirely without formal instruction. Early associations included a 1965 stint with Woody Herman and a 1966–1967 engagement with Buddy Rich, after which he spent an extended period in Las Vegas show bands. Settling in Los Angeles in 1973 led to studio work, yet he continued making room for jazz performances, notably with the Toshiko Akiyoshi-Lew Tabackin big band. Over subsequent decades Louie Bellson called on him repeatedly, and Shew remained a frequent choice for big band dates alongside Buddy Rich, Don Menza, and the Capp/Pierce Juggernaut. Beginning in the 1980s his schedule increasingly featured smaller groups. Recordings under his own name have appeared on Inner City, Sutra, Jazzhounds, Atlas, Delos, Pausa, Mo Pro, Mons, Double-Time, and MAMA.
Albums
