Billy Mitchell
Born Willie Melvin Mitchell
Billy Mitchell (born in Kansas City, Missouri, November 3, 1926, died Rockville Centre, NY, April 18, 2001) was an American jazz tenor saxophonist, and occasional actor.
He was a driving force and major influence in the post WWII Detroit modern jazz explosion. He influenced and employed many local musicians who later went on to fame, including Thad Jones and Elvin Jones. He is best known for his work with The Count Basie Orchestra and The Dizzy Gillespie big band of the 50's and 60's.....
