Lionel Hampton

USA, 1930–2002

American vibraphonist, bandleader and drummer (1908–2002), who established the vibraphone in jazz. A star of Benny Goodman's small groups, his own big band's explosive 1942 'Flying Home' (with Illinois Jacquet's honking solo) is often called the first rhythm-and-blues record.

MusicRoots documents 1 artist who influenced Lionel Hampton and 1 artist Lionel Hampton influenced in turn. Every connection cites a published source.

Who influenced Lionel Hampton?

• Louis Armstrong — Louis Armstrong's swinging melodic invention was a foundational influence on Hampton, who recorded with Armstrong early on and carried that hot-jazz feel to the vibraphone.

Which artists did Lionel Hampton influence?

• Jack McVea — McVea spent three years as baritone saxophonist in Lionel Hampton's band — present on the seminal 'Flying Home' — before taking that hard-swinging, riff-driven energy into his own jump combo.