Coleman Hawkins, the father of the jazz tenor saxophone, first recorded this tune with Fletcher Henderson in 1933. Thirty years later he was still performing it, and in between he recorded a number of fine versions. A 1954 recording on a date led by pianist Sir Charles Thompson is worthwhile listening to for Hawkins’ relaxed approach.
The “Hawk” was an early mentor to trumpeter Roy Eldridge, and the two worked together frequently during their careers. Eldridge flirted with a big band shortly after World War II, and his recording of “Talk...” shows off his elegant ballad style.
Dizzy Gillespie’s early mentor was Eldridge, and it’s often possible to hear the link between the two. Dizzy’s 1953 recording is especially interesting listening after Roy’s above. Stan Getz’s fine tenor saxophone playing is also featured on the album, and the group is backed by the Verve house rhythm section--the Oscar Peterson Trio (Oscar, piano; Herb Ellis, guitar; Ray Brown, bass) plus Max Roach (drums).
Chris Tyle - Jazz Musician and Historian
