Leon Thomas

Leon Thomas on vinyl: yodelling in spiritual jazz

In short: Leon Thomas (1937–1999) was a jazz singer with a technique all his own: he let his voice leap between registers in a yodel-like way. He became known with Pharoah Sanders and “The Creator Has A Master Plan”, then recorded his own albums for Bob Thiele’s Flying Dutchman label between spiritual jazz, blues and soul. The Vinyl Room currently has 7 Leon Thomas records.

What makes Leon Thomas special?

“Spirits Known And Unknown” is his first album as a leader – with spiritual lyrics, African rhythms and his typical yodelling. “In Berlin” was recorded live with Oliver Nelson, “3 Shades Of Blue” with saxophonist Johnny Hodges.

Plus “Gold Sunrise On Magic Mountain” from the seventies and the collection “Facets - The Legend Of Leon Thomas” with recordings from his Flying Dutchman years.

From our stock

First pressings

Records by Leon Thomas

→ Flying Dutchman · Pharoah Sanders · Oliver Nelson · Soul jazz

FAQ

What is special about Leon Thomas’ singing? His yodel-like technique, leaping between chest and head voice.

What does he have to do with Pharoah Sanders? He sang on Sanders’ 1969 “The Creator Has A Master Plan”.

Which label was Leon Thomas on? Mainly Flying Dutchman, Bob Thiele’s label.

Which records do you have? Editions from the seventies – 7 records in all.