The Lee Morgan Discography

Biograhical Sketch

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Last updated: June 4, 2003


1938 July 10 Edward Lee Morgan, known to his intimates as "Howdy Doody" (a cartoon character) due to his over-sized ears, was born in Philadelphia, the youngest of four children. Studies trumpet privately, and at Mastbaum Tech.
1953 Began by playing week-ends with his own group around town. Playing in a series of Tuesday night jazz workshop conclaves at Music City, he met and/or sat in with many of the big names such as Miles Davis and Clifford Brown.
1956 Summer Worked two weeks with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers.
1956 November Made his first album for the Blue Note record lavel.
1962 Troubled as well by drug-related problems, Lee decided to take a break, and went back home.
1962 November Lee appeared in New York for an engagement at Birdland.
1963 Backed in New York. Began to record as a leader, for the Blue Note record lavel.
1964-65 Played with Art Blakey again, but then on he led his own groups.
1972 February 19 Lee Morgan was shot and killed at Slug's Club, on the east side of Manhattan.