Billy Mitchell (jazz musician)

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Billy Mitchell (b. Kansas City, Missouri, November 3, 1926; d. Rockville Centre, NY, April 18, 2001) was an American jazz tenor saxophonist best known for his work with Woody Herman when he replaced Gene Ammons in his band. In 1949 Mitchell recorded with the Milt Buckner band, and from 1956 to 1957 he played with Dizzy Gillespie in his big band.

From 1957 until 1961 and from 1966 to 1967 Mitchell played with Count Basie, having replaced Lockjaw Davis. In the early 1960s he co-led a group with Al Grey, and also served as musical director to Stevie Wonder during this period.

[edit] Select Discography

• Swing...Not Spring! (1951-2; Savoy)
• The Colossus Of Detroit (1978; Xanadu Records)
• De Lawd's Blues (1980; Xanadu Records)