Jimmy Lytell

One of the most underrated clarinetists in jazz history, Jimmy Lytell was one of the first clarinetists to really swing, but he never really achieved much fame. He began playing professionally at age 12. A member of the Original Indiana Five in 1921, Lytell was a member of the Original Memphis Five, with whom he recorded extensively from 1922-25. He also spent part of 1922-24 as a member of the declining Original Dixieland Jazz Band. After the late 1920s, Lytell was found more often in the studios and orchestras (including being on NBC's staff) for radio programs than in jazz ...