 | Bubber developed the sound of the "wah-wah" plunger mute (inspired by King Oliver) while playing in Duke Ellington's band. His work brought the sound of the trumpet even closer to that of the human voice, and his style had an impact on other great trumpeters, like Cootie Williams. After breifly trying the trombone, Bubber switched to the cornet, and in the 1920s, he led his own group, touring with Mamie Smith. He joined Elmer Snowden's Washingtonians in 1923, just before Duke Ellington became the leader. Bubber helped the Duke compose many of his earlier compositions, including East St. Louis Toodle-oo, Creole Love Call, and Black and Tan Fantasy.Miley stayed with Ellington for 6 years before being replaced by Cootie Williams in 1929. He also recorded with King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton, Hoagy Carmichael and Leo Reisman (where-- because of segregaton laws-- he had to perform behind a stage curtain). Bubber died at the young age of 29, but the lasting influence of his solo work has inspired many who have followed. |
