Savoy Sultans
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The Savoy Sultans was the name of two related jazz ensembles in the twentieth century.
[edit] Savoy Sultans (1937-46)
The original Savoy Sultans were formed by saxophonist Al Cooper, and played at the Savoy Ballroom from 1937 to 1946. This small swing jazz ensemble was comprised of three trumpets, three reeds, piano, double bass, and drums. Among its members were Rudy Williams and George Kelly. They recorded seven times with Decca Records between 1938 and 1941; these recordings are not of high quality, and the band's reputation is due more to accounts by contemporaries than to their recorded legacy. Dizzy Gillespie gave the group high praise.
[edit] Savoy Sultans (1974-early 1990s)
The name Savoy Sultans was resurrected by Panama Francis in 1974 for a one-off concert, and was turned into a regular ensemble in 1979. He maintained the same instrumentation but added rhythm guitar. This group recorded for Black & Blue Records in 1979 and again with Stash Records in 1982-83. members included Francis Williams, Irv Stokes, Spanky Davis, Norris Turney, Howard E. Johnson, Bobby Watson, and Red Richards. George Kelly reprised his role in this later ensemble as well.
