Russell, “Snookum” Isaac (1913-1981)

Bandleader, arranger and pianist; born in Columbia, SC, Russell first studied drums and later the bass, and played with a local band at age 7; he toured the country with the Hartley Toots Band (1933-1939) then formed his own band (1939-50) with Fats Navarro, Ray Brown and J.J. Johnson playing all over the U.S.; recorded with George Lewis and Jimmy Yancey; Russell settled in New Orleans in the 1950s and was the jazz pianist at the Paddock Bar and Lounge on Bourbon Street for over 25 years; he has performed as leader of a jazz combo at other New Orleans night clubs including the Gateway Hotel piano bar; he passed away in 1981 and a jazz funeral was held for him.

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