Jon Hendricks

Jon Hendricks, was a jazz lyricist who was one of the originators of vocalese, which put lyrics to existing instrumental songs. He did a lot of Count Basie's songs, as well as Charlie Parker's bebop, which resulted in a very difficult job for the vocalist. Carmen McRae was one of many singers who loved his work and made albums based on it. John has been featured on the NPR show Jazz Profiles, hosted by jazz singer Nancy Wilson.

Hendricks is currently a professor of jazz at the University of Toledo.

External links

http://www.iaje.org/bio.asp?ArtistID=26