J.J. Johnson, known as the spiritual father of modern trombone, has been a notable figure in the history of jazz. His career has embodied virtually every innovation and development in jazz over the past half-century. Covering his life from childhood and education through his adult musical career playing with jazz greats such as Dizzy Gillespie, this book offers an illustration of Johnson's technical and stylistic development, as well as a thorough catalogue of his compositions, film scores, and recordings.