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Humphrey Richard Adeane Lyttelton (23 May 1921 – 25 April 2008), also known as Humph, was an English jazz musician and broadcaster from the Lyttelton family. Having taught himself the trumpet at school, Lyttelton became a professional musician, leading his own eight-piece band, which recorded a hit single, "Bad Penny Blues", in 1956.
He wrote humour pieces for Punch magazine, served as restaurant critic for Harper’s and Queen magazines, founded the Calligraph record label (1984), and wrote several influential books on jazz history. Into the 21st century, Lyttelton played with his group for sellout crowds throughout England.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Jul 26, 2015 · But more than that, he was a continuity around which popular culture swirled as it evolved, surviving – and thriving within currents that swept lesser jazzmen to obsolescence.
- Andrew Darlington
Humphrey Lyttelton's impact on the British jazz scene, as well as his wit and charm as a broadcaster and writer, made him a beloved and influential figure in British culture. His legacy continues to inspire and entertain jazz enthusiasts and comedy fans alike.
Mar 31, 2024 · Humphrey Richard Adeane Lyttelton was born May 23, 1921, in Buckinghamshire, England. He first heard jazz on the radio where he enjoyed the London dance bands and was particularly impressed by trumpeter Nat Gonella; Lyttelton was also inspired by Louis Armstrong ’s recordings for the Decca label.
Dec 31, 2021 · Avoiding showy pyrotechnics, he played in a succession of styles reflecting many influences: Classic Jazz, Kansas City, Latin and Mainstream Jazz, eventually returning to the New Orleans Revival sound. ‘We Played as we Pleased’. Traditional Jazz was a novelty in England when Lyttelton formed his first band in 1947.
Apr 25, 2008 · Humphrey Lyttelton: Raconteur, wit and father of British jazz. Humphrey Lyttelton was perhaps the UK's most influential jazz performer. Beyond this, he was a noted raconteur and wit and...
