New Book Focuses on Bassist/Photographer Milt Hinton

The life and work of Milt Hinton (1910-2000), who enjoyed simultaneous careers as jazz bassist and photographer, is celebrated in a new book, Playing the Changes: Milt Hinton’s Life in Stories and Photographs, published by Vanderbilt University Press. Credited to Hinton, David G. Berger and Holly Maxson, with a foreword by Clint Eastwood and a preface by Dan Morgenstern, the book chronicles Hinton’s rise from segregated backwater clubs to elegant concert halls. Hinton is said to be one of the most recorded musicians in jazz history.

In addition to presenting Hinton’s story, the book reproduces 260 of his photographs-Hinton began taking pictures in the 1920s and continued to do so until his death. More than 140 of the photos are published here for the first time. Among those pictured are Billie Holiday, Count Basie, Duke Ellington and others not quite as famous, such as the 400-pound arranger/bandleader/organist “Tiny” Parham. Included with the book is a CD of music and interviews with Milt Hinton, along with a discography and a filmography. The book sells for $75.00.

Originally Published January 30, 2008