Every Monday in 2014 (less a few time-sensitive posts and in-the-moment expressions) will be dedicated to the men in my life! Manly Mondays is back!
This week we’re taking a glimpse at Mr. Johnny Hodges, a jazz musician.
- Born in Cambridge, MA in 1906
- He blew the alto saxophone
- Considered one of the definitive alto saxophones players of the Big Band Era
- He’s most famous for his time with the Duke Ellington band
- His first instruments were the drums and piano (his mom was a skilled piano player)
- Sidney Bechet is likely the man we thank for introducing Hodges to the alto saxophone in 1920!
- Style notes: he was known for his style prowess and, in particular, his layering and textured double-breasted suits; I envision that in addition to a fedora, he would have rock a zip-collar sweater in a rich neutral like the one pictured below from Orvis. Thin enough to layer but substantial enough to stand on its own….
Grab it for your weekends or casual Friday uniform. It will go from work to weekend, and travel nicely!
