James Moody

James Moody on vinyl: bebop with feeling

In short: James Moody (1925–2010) was a saxophonist and flautist rooted in bebop who worked again and again with Dizzy Gillespie. One of his improvisations became world-famous: his solo on “I’m In The Mood For Love”, with new lyrics, became a classic as “Moody’s Mood For Love”. The Vinyl Room currently has 8 James Moody records.

What makes James Moody special?

Moody combined the fast lines of bebop with a warm, singing tone. On “Moody With Strings” he plays ballads with strings, while “Moody” and “James Moody’s Moods” show him in small bands.

“Chicago Concert” is a live meeting with tenor saxophonist Gene Ammons, and “Night Flight” was made with arranger Gil Fuller and the Monterey Jazz Festival Orchestra.

From our stock

First pressings

Records by James Moody

→ Dizzy Gillespie · Gene Ammons · Prestige · Bop

FAQ

What is “Moody’s Mood For Love”? His 1949 solo on “I’m In The Mood For Love”, which later became a vocal classic with lyrics by Eddie Jefferson.

Which instruments did James Moody play? Saxophone and flute.

Who did he often play with? Above all with Dizzy Gillespie.

Which records do you have? Editions from the sixties to the eighties – 8 records in all.