John Arnold Griffin III (April 24, 1928 – July 25, 2008) was an American jazz tenor saxophonist. Nicknamed “the Little Giant” for his short stature and forceful playing, Griffin’s career began in the early 1940s and continued until the month of his death. A pioneering figure in hard bop, Griffin recorded prolifically as a bandleader in addition to stints with pianist Thelonious Monk, drummer Art Blakey, in partnership with fellow tenor Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis and as a member of the Kenny Clarke/Francy Boland Big Band after he moved to Europe in the 1960s. In 1995, Griffin was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Berklee College of Music.
instruments played
saxophone
Tenor
Associated Acts
Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Thelonious Monk, Kenny Clarke/Francy Boland Big Band
Birth Name
John Arnold Griffin III
Genres
Jazz
Labels
Blue Note, Riverside
Occupations
Musician
Years Active
1940s 2008
Name
Johnny Griffin
Nationality
United States of America