Biography
Jazz double bassist Lennie Bush entered the world in London on June 6, 1927. A childhood case of polio left him with a permanent limp, yet he first took up violin before switching to double bass at age 16. Professional work followed within twelve months, beginning with the variety revue “the Rolling Stones and Dawn” and continuing alongside trumpeter Nat Gonella’s swing ensemble. The arrival of bebop reshaped his musical outlook, prompting him in late 1948 to join fellow London players in establishing Club Eleven—the city’s first jazz venue to compensate its performers.
He performed there in a quintet that included tenor saxophonist Ronnie Scott, trumpeter Hank Shaw, pianist Tommy Pollard, and drummer Tony Crombie; the ensemble quickly crystallized the emerging British bop style and left a lasting mark on younger musicians. Even as the group earned recognition, Bush pursued further refinement by studying with James Merrett at the Guildhall School of Music. His dedication drew frequent invitations from visiting artists, resulting in European tours alongside Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Zoot Sims, and Roy Eldridge.
In 1957 he became a member of drummer Jack Parnell’s ATV Orchestra. Subsequent sessions placed him behind Stephane Grappelli, Anita O'Day, and Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson. Semi-retirement began in the mid-’90s, though daily practice continued until his death on June 15, 2004.
He performed there in a quintet that included tenor saxophonist Ronnie Scott, trumpeter Hank Shaw, pianist Tommy Pollard, and drummer Tony Crombie; the ensemble quickly crystallized the emerging British bop style and left a lasting mark on younger musicians. Even as the group earned recognition, Bush pursued further refinement by studying with James Merrett at the Guildhall School of Music. His dedication drew frequent invitations from visiting artists, resulting in European tours alongside Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Zoot Sims, and Roy Eldridge.
In 1957 he became a member of drummer Jack Parnell’s ATV Orchestra. Subsequent sessions placed him behind Stephane Grappelli, Anita O'Day, and Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson. Semi-retirement began in the mid-’90s, though daily practice continued until his death on June 15, 2004.