Johnny Griffin

Johnny Griffin, affectionately known as "the Little Giant," was a powerhouse of the jazz tenor saxophone, renowned for his swift and dynamic playing style. Born in Chicago in 1928, Griffin's career spanned over six decades, beginning in the mid-1940s and continuing until his passing in 2008. A pivotal figure in the hard bop movement, Griffin's discography is extensive, featuring collaborations with jazz legends such as Thelonious Monk, Art Blakey, and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. His move to Europe in the 1960s, driven by personal and professional factors, led to a prolific period where he became a beloved figure in the European jazz scene, particularly in France and the Netherlands. Griffin's technical brilliance and harmonic sophistication made him one of the most respected and influential saxophonists of his generation, leaving an indelible mark on the world of jazz.