The Frank Strozier Discography
by Noal Cohen

Back to Frank Strozier page at Noal Cohen's Jazz History Website

Note: For conventions and abbreviations used in this discography, please see: Discography Key.

Houston Stokes (ldr), Matthew Garrett (t), Frank Strozier (as), Gilmore Daniels (ts), Erskine McLellan (g), Evans Bradshaw (p), Houston Stokes (d, v)

Houston Stokes (v) on a-e.

The information shown is taken from the online Sun Records discography and the details at first seem somewhat suspect. Frank Strozier would have been only 15 years old at the time but being from Memphis where the recording took place, it is certainly conceivable that he was involved. Furthermore, photos exist of Strozier with alto saxophone around this time. Bruyninckx indicates that there are no horns on tracks a and b. After auditioning some, but not all of this material, it appears that horns are definitely present on tracks c and d and possibly briefly on a. Bruyninckx also indicates the existence of two additional titles, "Going Crazy" and "The Hammer." Perhaps these are the "untitled instrumentals." There also may be alternate takes of titles a and b. This material was never issued originally and the issued titles only appeared much later on the blues anthologies listed. Sun Box 105 is a 9 LP set released in 1984.

Bruyninckx shows another session from 1952 with this same band recording a tune called "Got Me a Horse and Wagon" and issued on Sun/Charly (Eng.) CD 38 (The Sun Blues Archives Vol. 6 - Too Blue To Cry). This title could not be found in the Sun Records discography.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Billy Wallace (p), Bill Lee (b), unknown (d)

This session was produced by Max Roach for the Mercury label but never issued. The drummer could be Bill Hobbs, Donald Clark or Vernel Fournier.

Booker Little, Louis Smith (t), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman (ts), Calvin Newborn (g), Phineas Newborn (p), Jamil Nasser [George Joyner] (b), Charles Crosby (d)

Booker Little (t) on a-b; Louis Smith (t) on a-b; Frank Strozier (as) on a-c; George Coleman (ts) on a-b; Calvin Newborn (g) on a-b, d.

This ensemble was known as the Young Men from Memphis. The recording date comes from the Ruppli/Cuscuna Blue Note Label Discography CD-ROM. Fresh Sound 1642 gives the recording date as April 15, 1959.

Edward Bunky Redding (ldr), Sonny Cohn (t), Morris Brice (frh), Frank Strozier (as), Von Freeman (ts), McKinley Easton (bar), Lefty Bates (g), Floyd Morris (p), Quinn Wilson (b), Marshall Thompson (d), Edward Bunky Redding (v)

An unidentified string section is present on this session.

Walter Perkins (ldr), Willie Thomas (t), Frank Strozier (as), Harold Mabern (p), Bob Cranshaw (b), Walter Perkins (d)

This Chicago-based quintet was known as the MJT+3 (MJT = Cranshaw, Perkins = The Modern Jazz Two).

Frank Strozier (ldr), Booker Little (t), Frank Strozier (as), Wynton Kelly (p), Paul Chambers (b), Jimmy Cobb (d)

*Matrix numbers were not assigned to these tracks. Runnin' is called Run on Vee Jay NVJ2-903. Some discographies indicate that Vee Jay LP 1007 was the first issue of Fantastic Frank Strozier but this catalog number was assigned to a John Lee Hooker LP. Track e is the first recorded version of this title - see also the session of February 3, 1960.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Booker Little (t), Frank Strozier (as), Wynton Kelly (p), Paul Chambers (b), Jimmy Cobb (d)

*Matrix numbers were not assigned to the alternate takes so the master numbers are duplicated here for convenience. Some discographies indicate that Vee Jay LP 1007 was the first issue of Fantastic Frank Strozier but this catalog number was assigned to a John Lee Hooker LP.

Walter Perkins (ldr), Willie Thomas (t), Frank Strozier (as), Harold Mabern (p), Bob Cranshaw (b), Walter Perkins (d)

This Chicago-based quintet was known as the MJT+3 (MJT = Cranshaw, Perkins = The Modern Jazz Two). The version of Love Letters on Trip 5025 may be edited.

Lee Morgan (ldr), Lee Morgan (t), Frank Strozier (as), Wayne Shorter (ts), Bobby Timmons (p), Bob Cranshaw (b), Louis Hayes, Albert 'Tootie' Heath (d)

Louis Hayes (d) on a-d; Albert 'Tootie' Heath (d) on e-h.

*The actual matrix numbers of the alternate takes are unknown but are assigned here the same ones as the masters for convenience. This ensemble was called The Young Lions. On Vee Jay NVJ2-908, Scourin' and Peaches and Cream are interchanged.

Walter Perkins (ldr), Willie Thomas (t), Frank Strozier (as), Harold Mabern (p), Bob Cranshaw (b), Walter Perkins (d)

This Chicago-based quintet was known as the MJT+3 (MJT = Cranshaw, Perkins = The Modern Jazz Two).

Johnny Griffin (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Clark Terry (t), Matthew Gee, Julian Priester (tb), Frank Strozier (as), Johnny Griffin, Edwin Williams (ts), Charles Davis (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Victor Sproles (b), Charli Persip (d)

Johnny Griffin (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Clark Terry (t), Matthew Gee, Julian Priester (tb), Frank Strozier (as), Johnny Griffin, Edwin Williams (ts), Charles Davis (bar), Bobby Timmons (p, cel), Victor Sproles (b), Charli Persip (d)

Bobby Timmons (p) on b; (cel) on a.

Bill Henderson (ldr), Willie Thomas (t), Frank Strozier (as), Harold Mabern (p), Bob Cranshaw (b), Walter Perkins (d), Bill Henderson (v)

This is Bill Henderson accompanied by the MJT+3.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Billy Wallace (p), Bill Lee (b), Vernel Fournier [Amir Rushdan] (d)

*The actual matrix numbers of the alternate takes are unknown but are assigned here the same ones as the masters for convenience. Discographies assign matrix numbers 60-1657 and 60-1658 to "untitled blues." This blues is most likely Cloudy and Cool and so these numbers have been assigned to that title.

Walter Perkins (ldr), Willie Thomas (t), Frank Strozier (as), Harold Mabern (p), Bob Cranshaw (b), Walter Perkins (d)

This Chicago-based quintet was known as the MJT+3 (MJT = Cranshaw, Perkins = The Modern Jazz Two). This session was originally recorded but never issued by the Vee Jay label. *The actual matrix numbers of the alternate takes are unknown but are assigned here the same ones as the masters for convenience.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), George Coleman (ts), Pat Patrick (bar, f), Chris Anderson (p), Bill Lee (b), Walter Perkins (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-e, g-h; (f) on f; George Coleman (ts) on a, c, f, h; Pat Patrick (bar) on a, c, h; (f) on f.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Harold Mabern (p), Bill Lee (b), Al Dreares (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on b-e, g-h; (f) on a, f.

Sam Jones (ldr), Les Spann, Frank Strozier (f), Sam Jones (vc), Josef Zawinul (p), Ron Carter, Israel Crosby (b), Vernel Fournier [Amir Rushdan], Ben Riley (d)

Les Spann (f) on b-d; Frank Strozier (f) on a; Ron Carter (b) on a; Israel Crosby (b) on b-d; Vernel Fournier [Amir Rushdan] (d) on b-d; Ben Riley (d) on a.

The information on this session is taken from the liner notes to the 1995 reissue OJCCD-1864-2. Lord's discography claims the recording date is August 15, 1962 and that Strozier, Carter and Riley are present on tracks b-d instead of Spann, Crosby and Fournier, respectively.

Sam Jones (ldr), Blue Mitchell, Clark Terry, Snooky Young (t), Jimmy Cleveland (tb), Frank Strozier (as), Jimmy Heath (ts), Pat Patrick (bar), Wynton Kelly, Josef Zawinul (p), Ron Carter, Sam Jones (b), Ben Riley (d), Ernie Wilkins (con)

Clark Terry (t) on b, d; Snooky Young (t) on a, c; Wynton Kelly (p) on b, d; Josef Zawinul (p) on a, c; Ron Carter (b) on b, d.

The information on this session comes from the liner notes to the 1995 reissue OJCCD-1864-2. The Lord Discography claims the recording date of this session is August 15, 1962.

Booker Ervin (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Booker Ervin (ts), Horace Parlan (p), Butch Warren (b), Walter Perkins (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-e, g-h.

Frank Strozier does not solo on the short take of No Land's Man (often incorrectly listed as "No Man's Land").

Roy Haynes (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Ronnie Mathews (p), Larry Ridley (b), Roy Haynes (d)

e, f, g performed as medley.

Frank Strozier (as) on c-g; (f) on a-b.

Titles e-g constitute a medley of 11:05.

McCoy Tyner (ldr), Thad Jones (t), Frank Strozier (as), John Gilmore (ts), McCoy Tyner (p), Butch Warren (b), Elvin Jones (d)

According to the ABC ledger, matrix number 90049 was not used.

Roy Haynes (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Sam Dockery (p), Larry Ridley (b), Roy Haynes (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a, c-e, g-h, j; (f) on b, f, i.

Chet Baker (ldr), Chet Baker (fh), Frank Strozier (as, f), Phil Urso (ts), Hal Galper (p), Mike Fleming (b), Charlie Rice (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-d; (f) on e.

This recording date is found in Bruyninckx and Lord and the Thorbjorn Sjogren Chet Baker discography; however, the Ruppli Mercury label discography and the liner notes to Limelight 82003 and the Verve CD reissue give November 14, 1964 as the recording date for this session. Baby Breeze and Comin' Down are credited to Richard Carpenter. Baby Breeze was composed by Phil Urso but the rights to the song were sold to Carpenter.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli, Al Porcino, Ray Triscari, Stu Williamson, Jimmy Zito (t), Mike Barone, Bob Edmondson, Frank Rosolino (tb), Vincent De Rosa, Richard Perissi (frh), John Bambridge (tu), Justin Gordon, Jack Nimitz, Bud Shank (r), Frank Strozier (as), Russ Freeman (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

Frank Strozier solos on track a.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli, Lee Katzman, Larry McGuire, Al Porcino, Stu Williamson (t), Mike Barone, Bob Edmondson, Frank Rosolino (tb), Vincent De Rosa, Richard Perissi (frh), John Bambridge (tu), Justin Gordon, Jack Nimitz, Bud Shank (r), Frank Strozier (as), Russ Freeman (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

Frank Strozier solos on track b.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli (t), Frank Strozier (as), Russ Freeman (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

Don Specht (ldr), Conte Candoli (t), Frank Strozier (as), Shelly Manne (d)

This track and those on the following three sessions were issued on a rare LP that includes several other titles on which Frank Strozier does not perform. Recording dates are not provided. The liner notes (written by drummer Shelly Manne) indicate that the personnel on this track comprise the rather unusual trio shown but this has not been verified because I have not yet found a copy of the LP to audition.

Don Specht (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Conte Candoli, Don Fagerquist, Al Porcino (t), Dick Leith, Dick Nash, Dick Noel (tb), Med Flory, Ronnie (Ronny) Lang, Jack Nimitz, Bill Perkins (sax), Frank Strozier (as), Lou Levy (p), Buddy Clark (b), Shelly Manne (d), Don Specht (con)

No recording date is provided. See note to previous session.

Don Specht (ldr), Conte Candoli, Jack Laubach, Ollie Mitchell, Ray Triscari (t), Herbie Harper, Dick Noel, Ernie Tack (tb), Med Flory, Jack Nimitz, Bill Perkins, Bud Shank (sax), Frank Strozier (as), Victor Feldman (vib), Lou Levy (p), Buddy Clark (b), Shelly Manne (d), Don Specht (con)

Victor Feldman (vib) on b.

No recording date is provided. See note to first Don Specht session above.

Don Specht (ldr), Conte Candoli (t), Dick Nash, Dick Noel, Tom Shepard, Ernie Tack (tb), Vincent De Rosa (frh), Frank Strozier (as), Dom Fera (cl), Bill Perkins (f), Victor Feldman (vib), Lou Levy (p), Buddy Clark (b), Shelly Manne (d), Don Specht (con)

No recording date is provided. See note to first Don Specht session above.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli (t, fh), Frank Strozier (as), Russ Freeman (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli (t), Frank Strozier (as), Mike Wofford (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

These short tracks are taken from "The Navy Swings" radio shows and are thought to have been recorded between 1965 and 1967, not necessarily all at the same session. Since this version of the Manne quintet recorded several times in 1967, I am guessing that is the year these tracks were recorded. Frank's Tune is performed here as a 40-bar, ABA structure whereas on other recordings, it is a 56-bar, AABA composition. Presumably time restrictions mandated elimination of the second A section in this abbreviated performance.

Shelly Manne, The Airmen of Note (ldr), Conte Candoli, Paul Hubinon, Paul Kelly, Dick Montz, Vince Somma, Scott Waller (t), Bob Mann (t, g), Bill Booth, Ed Green, Gary Ross, Dave Steinmeyer (tb), Don Grossi, Ernie Hensley, Bill McPherson, Dave Napier, Kim Richmond, Jim Towsey, Barry Weinstein (r), Frank Strozier (as), Tom Baldwin, Dick Reitan, Mike Wofford (p), Monty Budwig, Don Dempsey, Dick Jones (b), Gary Gauger, Shelly Manne, Charlie McIlroy (d), Bob Bunton (dir)

This is one track of a compilation featuring The Airmen of Note in concert with various guests, in this case, the Shelly Manne Quintet (Candoli, Strozier, Wofford, Budwig). The LP was produced by the U.S. Air Force and not meant for sale or commercial distribution. This is the only track of the LP on which the Manne group, including Strozier, appears. The date of this performance is not given but the presence of Wofford suggests 1967. The personnel is collective for all the appearances on the LP which took place over the period 1966-1967 and it is not known who actually performs on this track, especially regarding the rhythm section players. All of the musicians, other than Manne's group, were enlisted men.

Oliver Nelson (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Conte Candoli, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill (t), Louis Blackburn, Billy Byers, Pete Myers, Ernie Tack (tb), Howard Johnson (tu), Oliver Nelson (ss, con), Gabe Baltazar, Frank Strozier (as), Bill Perkins, Tom Scott (ts), Jack Nimitz (bar), Frank Strazzeri (p), Monty Budwig (b), Ed Thigpen (d)

Frank Strozier does not solo on this track which features trumpeter Freddy Hill. Frank Strazzeri is incorrectly listed as Strazzori in the liner notes to Impulse A/S 9153. Howard Johnson's presence on tuba is confirmed by Johnson himself and by aural evidence despite not being credited in any other sources.

Oliver Nelson (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Conte Candoli, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill (t), Louis Blackburn, Billy Byers, Pete Myers, Ernie Tack (tb), Howard Johnson (tu), Oliver Nelson (ss, con), Gabe Baltazar, Frank Strozier (as), Bill Perkins, Tom Scott (ts), Jack Nimitz (bar), Frank Strazzeri (p), Monty Budwig (b), Ed Thigpen (d)

Frank Strozier and Tom Scott are featured on this track. This title is the later of the two Miles Davis tunes with this name. Frank Strazzeri is incorrectly listed as Strazzori in the liner notes to Impulse A/S 9153. Howard Johnson's presence on tuba is confirmed by Johnson himself and by aural evidence despite not being credited in any other sources.

Oliver Nelson (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Conte Candoli, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill (t), Louis Blackburn, Billy Byers, Pete Myers, Ernie Tack (tb), Howard Johnson (tu), Oliver Nelson (ss, con), Gabe Baltazar, Frank Strozier (as), Bill Perkins, Tom Scott (ts), Jack Nimitz (bar), Mel Brown (g), Frank Strazzeri (p), Monty Budwig (b), Ed Thigpen (d)

Mel Brown (g) on b-c.

Frank Strozier is featured on track a. Guitarist Mel Brown is Featured on tracks b and c. The trumpet section is featured on track d. Trombonist Lou Blackburn is featured on track e. Frank Strazzeri is incorrectly listed as Strazzori in the liner notes to Impulse A/S 9153. Howard Johnson's presence on tuba is confirmed by Johnson himself and by aural evidence despite not being credited in any other sources.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli (t, fh), Frank Strozier (as, f), Mike Wofford (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

Conte Candoli (t) on a-c; (fh) on d; Frank Strozier (as) on a-c; (f) on d.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli (t), Frank Strozier (as, f), Mike Wofford (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a, c; (f) on b.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli (t), Frank Strozier (as), Mike Wofford (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d), unknown (per)

unknown (per) on b.

This session was originally recorded for but never issued by the Atlantic label.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Conte Candoli (t), Frank Strozier (as, f), Mike Wofford (p), Monty Budwig (b), Shelly Manne (d)

Frank Strozier (f) on d.

This session was originally recorded for but never issued by the Atlantic label.

Nancy Wilson (ldr), Gene Cipriano (r, ts), Bill Green (r, as), Ernie Small (r, bar), Frank Strozier (as), Plas Johnson (ts), Victor Arno, Edward Bergman, Harry Bluestone, Jacques Gasselin, James Getzoff, Louis Kaufman, Lou Raderman, Sidney Sharp, Marshall Sosson (vn), Samuel Boghossian, Alvin Dinkin, Louis Kievman (vl), Anne Goodman, Ray Kramer, Igor Roroshevsky, Gloria Strassner (vc), Ann Stockton (hrp), John Collins, Bobby Gibbons (g), Donn Trenner (p), Buster Williams (b), Hal Blaine (d, per), Oliver Nelson (con), Nancy Wilson (v)

Frank Strozier does not solo on any of these tracks.

Carmen McRae (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Conte Candoli, Freddy Hill, Al Porcino (t), Louis Blackburn, Billy Byers, Frank Rosolino, Ernie Tack (tb), Buddy Collette, Bill Green, Anthony Ortega, Frank Strozier (sax), John Collins (g), Norman Simmons (p), Ray Brown (b), Shelly Manne (d), Oliver Nelson (con), Carmen McRae (v)

Frank Strozier does not solo on any of these tracks.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Justin Gordon, Bud Shank, Arthur Smith, Frank Strozier (r), Larry Bunker, Frank Carlson, Victor Feldman, Emil Richards (vib, mar, per), Robert Bain (g), Mike Wofford (p), Bill Pittman (b), Shelly Manne (d), unknown (v)

unknown (v) on c.

This is music used in the soundtrack of a television series. The version of Out On a Limb on Atlantic 2497 is edited. The unidentified alto saxophone soloist on track b could very well be Frank Strozier. This recording features a variety of African and Western woodwind and percussion instruments.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Justin Gordon, Bud Shank, Arthur Smith, Frank Strozier (r), Larry Bunker, Frank Carlson, Victor Feldman, Emil Richards (vib, mar, per), Robert Bain (g), Mike Wofford (p), Bill Pittman (b), Shelly Manne (d), unknown (v)

unknown (v) on d.

This is music used in the soundtrack of a television series. The unidentified alto saxophone soloist on tracks a-c could very well be Frank Strozier. This recording features a variety of African and Western woodwind and percussion instruments.

Shelly Manne (ldr), Justin Gordon, Bud Shank, Arthur Smith, Frank Strozier (r), Larry Bunker, Frank Carlson, Victor Feldman, Emil Richards (vib, mar, per), Robert Bain (g), Mike Wofford (p), Bill Pittman (b), Shelly Manne (d), unknown (v)

unknown (v) on c, e.

This is music used in the soundtrack of a television series. The unidentified alto saxophone soloist on tracks a and c could very well be Frank Strozier. This recording features a variety of African and Western woodwind and percussion instruments.

The Three Sounds (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill, Melvin Moore (t), Louis Blackburn, Billy Byers, Pete Myers (tb), Ernie Tack (bt), Anthony Ortega, Frank Strozier (as), Plas Johnson (ts), Bill Green (bar), Gene Harris (p), Andy Simpkins (b), Donald Bailey (d), Kenneth Watson (per)

Blue Note BST 84285 lists Georgia On My Mind as "Georgia." The personnel shown comes from the Cuscuna-Ruppli Blue Note discography. There appears to be a tenor saxophone missing. The Blue Note discography lists a Roger Hutchinson as part of the ensemble but with no instrument assigned. Anthony Ortega does not remember anyone with this name either on this session or as a Los Angeles musician of the time period. Other searches have failed to turn up anyone with this name who might have been associated with this session. It is not Bobby Hutcherson since no vibraphone is audible. Frank Strozier does not solo on any of these tracks.

The Three Sounds (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill, Melvin Moore (t), Louis Blackburn, Billy Byers, Pete Myers (tb), Ernie Tack (bt), Anthony Ortega, Frank Strozier (as), Jay Migliori (ts), Bill Green (bar), Gene Harris (p), Andy Simpkins (b), Donald Bailey (d), Lou Singer (per, tmp), Kenneth Watson (per)

The personnel shown comes from the Cuscuna-Ruppli Blue Note discography. There appears to be a tenor saxophonist missing. Frank Strozier does not solo on any of these tracks.

The Three Sounds (ldr), Conte Candoli, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill, Melvin Moore (t), Milt Bernhart, Louis Blackburn, Billy Byers (tb), Ernie Tack (bt), Anthony Ortega, Frank Strozier (as), Plas Johnson, Tom Scott (ts), Bill Green (bar), Gene Harris (p), Andy Simpkins (b), Donald Bailey (d), Kenneth Watson (per), Lou Singer (tmp)

The personnel shown comes from the Cuscuna-Ruppli Blue Note discography which lists a Roger Hutchinson as part of the ensemble but with no instrument assigned. Anthony Ortega does not remember anyone with this name either on this session or as a Los Angeles musician of the time period. Other searches have failed to turn up anyone with this name who might have been associated with this session. It is not Bobby Hutcherson since no vibraphone is audible. Frank Strozier does not solo on this track.

Don Ellis (ldr), Stuart Blumberg, Don Ellis, Bob Harmon, John Rosenberg, Glenn Stuart (t), Ernie Carlson, Glenn Ferris (tb), Terry Woodson (bt), Doug Bixby (tu), Sam Falzone (ss, ts, cl, f), Ron Starr (ss, as, cl), Frank Strozier (as, cl), John Klemmer (ts, cl), John Magruder (cl), Mark Stevens (vib, per), Pete Robinson (p, elp), Ray Neapolitan (b, eb), Dave Parlato (b), Ralph Humphrey (d), Gene Strimling (per), Lee Pastora (cng)

This comes from a PBS broadcast of a concert that was part of the "Contemporary Trends Concerts" held at Tanglewood. Other performers at the event were the Modern Jazz Quartet and vocalist Judy Collins. The personnel are not identified but are most likely the same band members that recorded for Columbia a short time later (see sessions below). Frank Strozier solos on track a. These performances can be found on YouTube. Many thanks to Michael Fitzgerald for information on the recording date and venue.

Don Ellis (ldr), Stuart Blumberg, Bob Harmon, John Rosenberg (t, fh), Don Ellis, Glenn Stuart (t), Ernie Carlson, Glenn Ferris (tb), Don Switzer (bt), Ira Schulman, Frank Strozier (as), Sam Falzone, John Klemmer (ts), John Magruder (bar, bcl), Pete Robinson (p, elp), Ray Neapolitan (b, eb), Dave Parlato (b), Ralph Humphrey (d), Gene Strimling (per), Lee Pastora (cng)

K.C. Blues features Frank Strozier, John Klemmer and Pete Robinson. Ellis plays quarter-tone trumpet and amplified trumpet.

Don Ellis (ldr), Stuart Blumberg, Don Ellis, Bob Harmon, John Rosenberg, Glenn Stuart (t), Ernie Carlson, Glenn Ferris (tb), Terry Woodson (bt), Doug Bixby (tu), Sam Falzone (ss, ts, cl, f), Ron Starr (ss, as, cl), Frank Strozier (as, cl), John Klemmer (ts, cl), John Magruder (cl), Mark Stevens (vib, per), Pete Robinson (p, elp), Ray Neapolitan (b, eb), Dave Parlato (b), Ralph Humphrey (d), Gene Strimling (per), Lee Pastora (cng)

Ellis plays quarter-tone trumpet and amplified trumpet.

Oliver Nelson (ldr), Bobby Bryant (t), Oliver Nelson (ss, as, con), Frank Strozier (as), Roger Kellaway (p), Chuck Domanico (b), John Guerin (d), Others Unknown (var)

These are three of nine tracks found on Flying Dutchman FDS 116 and are performed by what sounds like a conventional big band. Unfortunately, little information seems to exist regarding personnel other than the soloists. I am assuming that the personnel is the same for all three titles and that they were recorded at the same session. Guerin (d) and Domanico (b) are mentioned in the liner notes so I am assuming they are part of the rhythm section on these tracks although this is not confirmed. Frank Strozier is featured on track a. Oliver Nelson is featured on soprano saxophone on track b. Bobby Bryant and Roger Kellaway are featured on track c. The matrix numbers shown were assigned in 1976 by RCA.

The remaining tracks of this LP involve Oliver Nelson in various other settings including a piano duo and backed by a string orchestra, probably recorded at other sessions, none of which appear to involve Frank Strozier. They are not included here.

Steve Allen (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill, Ollie Mitchell (t), George Bohanon, Billy Byers, Ernie Tack (tb), Bob Brookmeyer (vtb), Vincent De Rosa, David Duke, Bill Hinshaw, Alan Robinson (frh), John Klemmer, Frank Strozier, Ernie Watts (sax), David Cohen, Howard Roberts (g), Steve Allen, Michael Lang (key), Max Bennett (eb), Jimmy Gordon (d), Bobby Morin (per), Oliver Nelson (con)

Despite the presence of many well known jazz musicians, this session and the two following are very commercial in nature and not representative of Oliver Nelson's great talent as an arranger. Most of the solos are by guitar (Cohen) or electronic keyboard. Track d has a brief alto saxophone solo at the beginning that may be Strozier. Allen plays an electronic device known as a Rock-Si-Chord which simulates the sound of a harpsichord. The information comes from Doug Payne's Oliver Nelson Discography.

Steve Allen (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill, Ollie Mitchell (t), Louis Blackburn, George Bohanon, Billy Byers, Dick McQuary (tb), Vincent De Rosa, David Duke, Bill Hinshaw, Art Maebe (frh), John Klemmer, Frank Strozier, Ernie Watts (sax), Dennis Budimir, David Cohen (g), Steve Allen, Michael Lang (key), Max Bennett (eb), Jimmy Gordon (d), Bobby Morin (per), Oliver Nelson (con)

According to Doug Payne, track d comes from a cue from Oliver Nelson's score for the TV show Ironside. This track has the only tenor saxophone solo on the LP.

Steve Allen (ldr), Bobby Bryant, Buddy Childers, Freddy Hill, Ollie Mitchell (t), Louis Blackburn, George Bohanon, Billy Byers, Dick McQuary (tb), Vincent De Rosa, David Duke, Bill Hinshaw, Alan Robinson (frh), John Klemmer, Frank Strozier, Ernie Watts (sax), Dennis Budimir, David Cohen (g), Steve Allen, Michael Lang (key), Larry Knechtel (eb), John Guerin (d), Bobby Morin (per), Oliver Nelson (con)

Bobby Pierce (ldr), Bobby Alston (t), Billy Mitchell (ss, ts), Frank Strozier (as, f), Ted Dunbar (g), Bobby Pierce (elp, cel, or, v), Bob Cranshaw (eb), Freddie Waits (d)

Billy Mitchell (ss) on c-d; Frank Strozier (as) on a, c-f; (f) on b; Bobby Pierce (elp) on b, e; (cel) on e; (or) on a-d, f; (v) on a, c, e.

Keno Duke (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), George Coleman (ts), Harold Mabern (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Keno Duke (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-e; (f) on f.

Lew Anderson (ldr), Bob Millikan, Dean Pratt, Chuck Winfield (t), Eddie Bert, Sonny Costanza (tb), Lew Anderson, Frank Strozier (as), Neil Slater (p), Joe Cocuzzo (d), Others Unknown (var)

This radio broadcast on WRVR (Jazz Adventures) comprises two sets of the Lew Anderson Orchestra (Set 1: tracks a-h; Set 2: tracks i-n). The master of ceremonies is Jack Tafoya. Except for track a, the track timings shown do not include announcements. Several members of the band are not yet identified. Track c features Sonny Costanza. Track j features Eddie Bert. Track m features Lew Anderson. Frank Strozier solos on tracks d, f, h, k and n.

Sy Oliver (ldr), Doc Cheatham, Joe Newman (t), Eddie Bert, Garnett Brown, Warren Covington, Jack Jeffers (tb), Haywood Henry, Bob Levine, Harold Ousley, Frank Strozier, Norris Turney (r), Cliff Smalls (p), Peck Morrison (b), Panama Francis (d), Sy Oliver (con), Alan Sokoloff (v)

The personnel is incomplete. A tape of this live tribute to Tommy Dorsey is stored in the Voice of America Library Collection at the Library of Congress.

Keno Duke (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), George Coleman (ts), Harold Mabern (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Keno Duke (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a, c-f; (f) on b.

Sonny Stitt (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Pee Wee Ellis, Sonny Stitt (ts), Mike Wofford (p, elp), Brian Torff (b), Shelly Manne (d), Ray Armando (per)

Mike Wofford (p) on a-b; (elp) on c.

Stitt is the first tenor saxophone soloist on track a, the only one on track b and the first and last on track c.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Mark Strozier (pic, f), Warren Chiasson (vib), Harold Mabern (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Walter Bolden (d)

Mark Strozier (pic) on b-c, j; (f) on b-c, j; Frank Strozier (f) on b, j.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Frank Stagnitta (p), Frank Tate (b), Larry Jackson (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-e, g-m; (f) on f.

This is a private recording of a live performance. Tracks c-d and j-k are single performances divided by a tape flip. Tracks e and m are set ending themes. On track i, Strozier actually plays two blues lines, one of which is the title shown and the other as yet unidentified.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (fh), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman, Mario Rivera (ts), Harold Mabern (p), Calvin Hill (b), Eddie Moore (d)

Tapes of this live concert are stored in the Voice of America Library Collection at the Library of Congress.

Woody Shaw (ldr), Woody Shaw (t), Frank Strozier (as), Ronnie Mathews (p), Stafford James (b), Eddie Moore (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-c, e.

Martin Mull (ldr), Joe Newman, Waymon Reed (t), Janice Robinson (tb), Frank Strozier (as), Frank Foster (ts), Seldon Powell (bar), Steve Khan (g), Eddie Wise (p), Richard Tee (or), Ron Carter (b), Michael Carvin (d), Melissa Manchester, Martin Mull (v)

Richard Tee (or) on b; Melissa Manchester (v) on a.

The horns were arranged by Frank Foster and were overdubbed. Frank Strozier only appears on these two tracks.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t, fh), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman, Frank Foster (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Calvin Hill (b), Billy Higgins (d)

This is a live performance of the George Coleman Octet. Information on this session comes from Johannes Probst.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t, fh), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman, Frank Foster (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Calvin Hill (b), Billy Higgins (d)

Information on this private recording of the George Coleman Octet live was provided by Johannes Probst and Ned Otter. The performance order is not certain.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Danny Moore (fh), Howard Johnson (tu), Frank Strozier (as, f), Harold Mabern (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Michael Carvin (d)

Danny Moore (fh) on a-d, f-g; Howard Johnson (tu) on a-d, f-g; Frank Strozier (as) on a-b, d-g; (f) on c.

Horace Parlan (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Frank Foster (ts), Horace Parlan (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Al Harewood (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-e, g-h; Frank Foster (ts) on a-e, g-h.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman, Junior Cook (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Idris Muhammad (d)

This title comes from a radio broadcast of a live performance of the George Coleman Octet. The other titles broadcast are unknown.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman, Junior Cook (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Idris Muhammad (d), Azzedin Weston (per)

Azzedin Weston (per) on d.

This session was originally recorded for but never issued by the Catalyst label.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Danny Moore (t), Frank Strozier (as, f), Harold Mabern (p), Stafford James (b), Louis Hayes (d)

Danny Moore (t) on b-c, g-h; Frank Strozier (as) on a-b, d-g, i-j; (f) on c, h.

Stafford James (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Harold Mabern (p), Stafford James (b), Louis Hayes (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a; (f) on e-f; Harold Mabern (p) on a-b, d-f; Louis Hayes (d) on a, c-f.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t, fh), Frank Strozier, Pete Yellin (as), George Coleman, Junior Cook (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Calvin Hill (b), Walter Bolden (d)

Tapes of this live performance exist.

Kazumi Watanabe (ldr), Jon Faddis, Earl Gardner, Frank Gordon, Virgil Jones (t), Earl McIntyre, Janice Robinson (tb), Greg Williams (frh), Frank Strozier (as, f), Ron Bridgewater (ts), Sandra Billingslea, John Blake, Winston Collymore, Gayle Dixon, Carl Ector, Melvin Roundtree, George Taylor (vn), Charles Dahon, Sharon Ray, Maxine Roach (vl), Akua Dixon, Clarissa Howell, Ulysses Kirksey (vc), Yoshiaki Masuo, Kazumi Watanabe (g), Mickey Tucker (p, elp), Alex Blake (b, eb), Idris Muhammad (d), Joe Chambers, Ray Mantilla, Nobu (per)

The ensemble is known as Manhattan Blaze and the string section as String Reunion. Frank Strozier (alto sax) and Jon Faddis are featured on track a. Ron Bridgewater is featured on track c. The strings are heard only track b. The issues contain three more titles, "Park Avenue", "Mustache daddy" and "Crystal Rain" but the horns are not present on those tracks.

Louis Hayes (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Harold Mabern (p, elp), Cecil McBee (b), Louis Hayes (d), Portinho (per), Titos Sompa (cng), Leon Thomas (w, v)

Frank Strozier (as) on a, c-f, h-i; (f) on b; Harold Mabern (elp) on h; Portinho (per) on b, e, g-h; Titos Sompa (cng) on b, g-h; Leon Thomas (w) on b; (v) on b, f.

The whistler on track b is probably Leon Thomas.

Mari Nakamoto (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Jack Rothstein (vn), David Snell (hrp), Joe Beck (g), Paul Hart, Harold Mabern (p), Bingo Miki, Barry Miles (snt), Jamil Nasser [George Joyner] (b), Brian Odgers (eb), Louis Hayes, John Marshall, Dave Mattacks (d), Louis Jardine, Gary Kettel, Tony Utah (per), Harry Rabinowitz (con), Mari Nakamoto (v)

Frank Strozier (as) on a, d-e; (f) on b-c; David Snell (hrp) on a, e; Paul Hart (p) on c; Harold Mabern (p) on a-b, d-e; Bingo Miki (snt) on e; Barry Miles (snt) on a-d; Jamil Nasser [George Joyner] (b) on a, e; Brian Odgers (eb) on b-d; Louis Hayes (d) on a, e; John Marshall (d) on b, d; Dave Mattacks (d) on c; Louis Jardine (per) on c-e; Gary Kettel (per) on a-b, e; Tony Utah (per) on c.

The personnel is collective. Frank Strozier does not appear on the remaining tracks of this session. On all tracks, unidentified members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra appear on strings, brass and reeds. Jack Rothstein is concertmaster. Several of the musicians' names are misspelled on the LP: Strozier as "Stroger," Hayes as "Hays," Nasser as "Nassar," Mabern as "Maybern," Snell as "Snnell," Marshall as "Martial," Barry Miles as "Burry Miles" and Mattacks as "Mattocks."

Mari Nakamoto (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Joe Beck (g), Barry Miles (key), Harold Mabern (p), Jamil Nasser [George Joyner] (b), Louis Hayes (d), Mari Nakamoto (v)

Jim Schapperoew (ldr), Frank Strozier (as, f), Charles Farrell (p), Buster Williams (b), Jim Schapperoew (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a, c-e; (f) on b.

Soliloquy is a 2 CD compilation of Schapperoew's recordings.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman, Sal Nistico (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Clint Houston (b), Billy Higgins (d)

This is a private recording of a live performance of the George Coleman Octet.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t, fh), George Coleman (as, ts), Frank Strozier (as, f), Sal Nistico (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Clint Houston (b), Billy Higgins (d)

Louis Hayes (ldr), Slide Hampton (tb), Frank Strozier (as), Harold Mabern (p), Clint Houston (b), Louis Hayes (d)

Slide Hampton (tb) on b-c; Frank Strozier (as) on a, c.

This live performance was broadcast on "Jazz Alive," an NPR FM radio series and a private recording exists. The MC is Joe Segal.

Danny Moore (ldr), Danny Moore (t, fh), Frank Strozier (as), Hilton Ruiz (p), Calvin Hill (b), Louis Hayes (d)

Danny Moore (t) on a-b, d, f; (fh) on e; Frank Strozier (as) on a-d, f.

This live performance was broadcast on WBAI-FM, New York City.

Louis Hayes (ldr), Slide Hampton (tb), Frank Strozier (as, f), Walter Bishop, Jr. (p), Henk Haverhoek (b), Louis Hayes (d)

Slide Hampton (tb) on a-b, e-i; Frank Strozier (as) on a, e-g, i; (f) on b, d.

This is a private recording of the Louis Hayes Quintet live. Tracks a-e comprise set 1 and f-i, set 2. Horns are out on track c.

Jim Schapperoew (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Warren Chiasson (vib), Roland Hanna (p), Harvie S [Harvie Swartz] (b), Jim Schapperoew (d)

This is a recording of a live performance broadcast on WKCR-FM in a series called "Monday-Live." The on-air host is Andy Caploe.

Stephen Roane (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Noreen Grey (p), Stephen Roane (b), Gerry Fitzgerald (d)

Jim Schapperoew (ldr), Art Baron (tb), Frank Strozier (as), Clifford Jordan (ts), Warren Chiasson (vib), Reggie Workman (b), Jim Schapperoew (d), Phil Wilson (per)

This was a live performance. Soliloquy is a 2 CD compilation of Schapperoew's recordings.

Stephen Roane (ldr), Frank Strozier (as), Richard Grando (ts), Noreen Grey (p), Stephen Roane (b), Gerry Fitzgerald (d)

Frank Strozier (as) on a-e, g; Richard Grando (ts) on a-c, e-f.

This is a live performance of the Stephen Roane Quintet broadcast on WBGO-FM as part of the NPR American Jazz Radio Festival. There were probably more titles performed than shown here. I have not listened to the complete program. Information on this session comes from Stephen Roane.

George Coleman (ldr), Danny Moore (t), Frank Strozier (as), George Coleman, Robert Garner, Jr. [Bobby LaVell] (ts), Mario Rivera (bar), Harold Mabern (p), Lisle Atkinson (b), Akira Tana (d)

This concert was broadcast on FM radio and private recordings have circulated. Tracks a-c are from the first set and d and e from the second. Track e is incomplete, ending during the bass solo.

Frank Strozier (ldr), Frank Strozier (p), Stephen Roane (b), Curtis Boyd (d)

This was Strozier's debut on piano. It is not known if any recordings exist. The information comes from Paul B. Matthews' review of the concert published in the May, 1990 issue of Cadence Magazine.

Back to Frank Strozier page at Noal Cohen's Jazz History Website