"Cherokee" performed by Clifford Brown

Factoids:

• written originally by Ray Noble in 1938
• is a jazz standard
• known for its long notes (whole notes and half notes) but is at a very fast tempo (quarter notes = 250 beats per minute or more)
• Many artists have performed this chart to showcase their virtuosic talents

This recording:

• Performed by the Max Roach Quintet featuring:
• Trumpet - Clifford Brown (1930-1956)
• Richie Powell's (pianist) wife was driving Richie and Clifford Brown to an engagement when she lost control of the vehicle on the PA turnpike.  All three people tragically died.
• He died at the age of 25 in a car accident leaving only 4 years worth of recordings, but was HIGHLY influential to jazz 
• He defied the "jazz druggie" cliche and led a clean life by staying away from heroin, marijuana, and even alcohol
• Drums - Max Roach (1924-2007)
• composer, band leader, and soloist
• led the forefront in hard bop style (quick playing)
• Tenor - Harold Land (1928-2000)
• Bass - George Morrow (1925-1992)
• Piano - Richie Powell (1931-1956)
• Here is a transcription of Clifford Brown's solo in Cherokee...prepare to be amazed

Also, check out another recording of Arturo Sandoval, Chuck Findley, Randy Brecker, and Byron Stripling perform Cherokee.  All four trumpeters play the beginning of Clifford Brown's solo in the beginning with amazing accuracy.  Truly amazing!