American musician
Jazz vibraphonist. Jackson, Ray Brown , John Lewis , and drummer Kenny Clarke , were the original members of the Modern Jazz Quartet.
Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1989.
Inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame in 1996.
He created a new sound in the 1940s by slowing down the motor on his Deagan Vibraharps oscillator to a third of the speed of Lionel Hamptons. Jackson was regarded as one of the great improvisers in jazz.
Acquired his sobriquet of Bags from the deep furrows under his eyes, the result of a drinking binge after his release from the Army.
Played in the orchestras of Dizzy Gillespie , and Woody Herman. Present at Thelonious Monks famous 1951 Blue Note recording sessions.
Taught himself guitar at the age of seven, started piano lessons at eleven and in high school played five instruments: drums, tympani, violin, guitar and xylophone. Began professionally as a singer in a Detroit gospel quartet (the Evangelist Singers).
Studied music at Michigan State University.
Has one daughter Chyrise.
Friends with Kenny Burrell.
