Clark Terry (1920–2015)
Clark Terry in performance, 1981 – pure joy and swing
One of jazz's most beloved trumpeters and flugelhorn pioneers. Over 70 years, 900+ recordings, broke barriers, and mentored generations.
Clark Terry (left) in the late 1940s – early big band days
Born December 14, 1920 in St. Louis, Missouri. Grew up in poverty but immersed in jazz. Served in U.S. Navy (1942–1945) in the Great Lakes Navy Band, sharpening his skills.
Clark Terry bringing the energy on stage
Joined Count Basie (1948–1951), then became a featured soloist with Duke Ellington (1951–1959). His bright, lyrical trumpet and flugelhorn work defined this era.
Doc Severinsen (left) and Clark Terry (right) during trumpet solos on The Tonight Show closing theme, 1962 – iconic mid-1960s moment
First African American staff musician at NBC (1960). Joined The Tonight Show band (Skitch Henderson → Doc Severinsen). Famous for "Mumbles" scat vocals and collaborations with Oscar Peterson, Ella Fitzgerald, Quincy Jones, and more.
Clark Terry showcasing the flugelhorn – his signature warm sound
Bright tone, swing-bebop fusion, pioneered flugelhorn in jazz for ballads. In later years: passionate educator, NEA Jazz Masters Award (1991), performed/teached into his 90s despite diabetes challenges. Autobiography details his barrier-breaking life.
Remembered for impeccable musicianship and infectious humor/joy. A true treasure of jazz.
Start here: "Mumbles", Ellington's "Come Sunday", duets with Oscar Peterson, The Clark Terry Spacemen album.