Russ Freeman

Bop / Cool jazz pianist (sometimes credited as producer for World Pacific)

Born 28 May 1926 in Chicago, Illinois
Died 27 June 2002 in Las Vegas, Nevada

Russ Freeman worked with most if not all of the major West Coast jazz names, including Dexter Gordon, Wardell Gray, Sonny Criss, Chet Baker, Shelly Manne, Shorty Rogers and Art Pepper. Also with Serge Chaloff (Boston, 1954), Charlie Parker (LA, 1947), and two years with Benny Goodman (1958-59). He is best known for his 1950s work with trumpeter Chet Baker and drummer Shelly Manne.

His later career was focused mainly on session work for television and film soundtracks, and as a music director in nightclubs. He recorded again in a duet with Manne in 1982. He was the cousin of composer Ray Gilbert and the singer Joanne Gilbert.

• For the contemporary jazz guitarist, usually associated to The Rippingtons, please use Russ Freeman.