Eminent Tribute For A Marvelous Man And Musician - Snooky Young
Los Angeles County Museum of Art LACMA as it fondly called gave a special recognition to the legendary musician, Eugene "Snooky" Young - Trumpeter on September 11. 2009. Snooky is the "Master of the plunger" a mute used by trumpeters everywhere. This mute allows the musician to create all sorts of sounds and affects in his music.

Mr. Young received the much desired initial Los Angeles Treasure Award. Zev Yaroslavsky, Los Angeles County Supervisor for the Third district was on hand to give a special recognition to Mr. Young for giving over 60 years of ingenious artistry to the world of music and society.

The celebration included a breath-taking concert with a host of musicians that gave honor to a 90 year old man who started his career with the Jimmie Lunceford in 1939. Throughout the years he has played with countless musicians and bands including William "Count" Basie and Gerald Wilson.

In addition to this, Snooky was a musician on the Tonight Show back in the days of Johnny Carson.

He has been a pillar in several cities and has always been a role model in the arts, music, community, and national events.

The band consisted of a select group of musicians from the Tonight Show Band and Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra.

Rickey Woodard - Saxophone

Jennifer Leitham - Bass

Rich Eames - Piano

Ed Shaughnessy - Drums

Chuck Finley - Trumpet

Ira Nepus - Trombone

Here's just a sample of the treasured tunes shared by this magnificent ensemble.

Count Basie's, "Jumpin' at the Woodside", Juan Tizol's "Perdido", Rickey Woodard's "The Silver Strut"

Snooky joined in on his signature tune by James Young and Sy Oliver, "Tain't what you do (It's the way you do it). He sang and played in his swinging and soulful manner causing shout out from a delightful audience of aficionadas and aficionados.

YEOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


ENCORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ALL-RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just a few English words to try and describe the vibe in the quarters.

Snooky's style is infectious and infused with the true spirit of the Blues, swing, spiritual call and response, musical ecstasy, warmth, connection, bliss, and spontaneous creativity that draws one to Jazz.

It is nearly impossible to articulate the feeling of the night as Snooky played with the band.

Some other Trumpeters that were on hand to give a shout out for the finale were Arturo Sandoval, Bobby Rodriquez, and Rick Baptist.

An authentic camaraderie between the band, audience, workers, and officials was present that came from Snooky's and the band's communing resulting in an incredible collaboration.

If you have never seen Snooky Young perform, I strongly suggest you look for the next available opportunity to see him in your area.

It is a wonderful encounter unlike any other.

Congratulations Snooky!

May you experience the same richness, passion, love, peace, joy, knowledge, and wealth that you have generously given to many generations.