Young, Lester

(Willis), called Pres or Prez, African-American JAZZ TENOR saxophonist; b. Woodville, Miss., Aug. 27, 1909; d. N.Y., March 15, 1959. Young studied trumpet, alto sax, violin, and drums with his father, then played in his family's band. Turning to the tenor saxophone at 19, he began performing with various groups in the Midwest.

Young was a member of COUNT BASIE'S band in 1934, 1936-40, and 1943-44. While serving in the U.S. Army, he was court-martialed for using drugs. Upon his release in 1945, he resumed his career, which was plagued by his abuse of alcohol. He continued to perform until shortly before his death.

He made recordings with various jazz notables, including BILLIE HOLIDAY, who dubbed him "Pres" (a contraction of "President") for his outstanding abilities. One of the great jazz saxophonists, he influenced numerous successors through his beautiful long melodic lines, fine phrasing, and inventive solos. Among his famous recordings were Lady Be Good, Shoe Shine Boy, Lester Leaps In, After Theatre Jump, These Foolish Things, All of Me (with Holiday), Pres Returns, and Easy Does Lt.