LEE BLAIR

         He was a self taught musician that played left handed banjo and guitar. He took a few lessons from Mike Pingitore but his natural ability landed his first professional job in 1926 with Charlie Keets. Some of the greats he worked with included Jelly Roll Morton, Luis Russell and Louis Armstrong. The Luis Russell Orchestra became the back-up band for Louis Armstrong during the depression and jazz experts feel that Luis' band may have been the first swing band with Blair playing guitar.
        During the 1950's Blair played banjo again performing and recording with Wilbur De Paris.

Wilbur De Paris Plays Something Old New Gay Blue
Atlantic 1300
Wilbur De Paris At Symphony Hall
Atlantic 1353