Jackie Williams

11.13.2023

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01.02.1933 – 06.11.2023

Jackie Williams was born in Harlem and lived and played in New York City throughout his life. He began playing drums so young, and in such a musical climate, that he couldn’t recall when exactly he became a professional drummer.

Jackie played for many years with Doc Cheatham. Other leaders he worked with include Illinois Jacquet, Jay McShann, and Junior Mance. He worked extensively with the Harlem Blues & Jazz Band and the Jazz Foundation’s Jazz in the Schools program.