Old Man Time

Milt Hinton, affectionately known as "The Judge," was a titan of the jazz double bass, leaving an indelible mark on the genre over six decades. Born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and raised in Chicago, Hinton's career took off in the swing era, and he quickly became one of the most sought-after bassists in jazz. His rich tone and impeccable rhythmic timing earned him the nickname "Sporty" and later "The Judge," reflecting his status as a true master of his craft.

Hinton's discography is staggering, with some suggesting he appeared on more recordings than any other musician in history. He played with legends like Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong, and Benny Goodman, among many others, and his influence can be heard in cool jazz, hard bop, and bebop. But Hinton's contributions to jazz weren't just musical; he was also a prolific photographer, capturing iconic images of musicians and scenes from the jazz world. His collection of over 35,000 negatives is a treasure trove of jazz history, documenting the lives and times of some of the genre's greatest figures. Hinton's legacy endures not just through his music but also through his photographs, offering a unique visual and auditory journey into the heart of American jazz.