Rubin Mitchell
Rubin Morris Mitchell (July 11, 1927 – December 21, 1972) was an American jazz pianist, composer, and leader of his eponymous jazz orchestra from 1956 through the rest of his life.
Early life
According to his WWII draft card, he also went by Myles for his middle name. On August, 1951 Mitchell was signed to Colombia Records by J.J. Johnston, however before he could release any music, he was conscripted for the Korean War. [1]He served in Korea from 1952 to 1954. Two early records were released under his birth-name in 1951 and 1953 "After Hours In Haiti" and "Mambo After Hours", both on OKeh Records.[2]
As early as July 1963, Rubin Mitchell was headlining venues in upstate New York. Mr. Mitchell grew up in the West Indies and in the South. His musical training includes study at the Julliard School of Music. Prior to 1956 when the Trio was formed, Mr. Mitchell played solo. At the Flamingo Club in Las Vegas, he shared bandstands with such top music personalities as Count Basie and ppHarry James]]. He has also accompanied ppJudy Garland]], Jack Benny and Ray Bolger on the piano.[3][4] Between 1960 and 1962 he had an 18-month residency at The Flamingo in Las Vegas.[5][6]
Starmaker Records
The earliest known releases by Rubin Mitchell was on Starmaker Records, a Jazz Label from New York City. First releasing two 7" singles ("Li'l Liza Jane" and "Dardanella") followed by a full-length album ("The Golden Hands Of Rubin Mitchell"). All three releases were recorded at Plaza Sound Studios, most famous for being the rehearsal space for Arturo Toscanini and his symphony orchestra in the 1930s.[7][8]
Capitol Records
February 11th, 1967, two days before his album is to be released, Billboard Magazine announces his Los Angeles concert debut will take place on March 1st, at the Century Plaza as a trio with Joe Bellardino on percussion, and Eddie Kahn on bass. [9]
The Capitol Disc Jockey Album (February 1967) described him a "young pianist whose style and talent have already made him an East Coast Legend." According to Joe X Price writing for Variety Magazine: "Without a doubt, this Rubin is the most electrifying pianist I've ever heard! I predict his spellbinding piano sound will start a nationwide craze. Wherever he's played, they've dubbed him 'the Remarkable Rubin.' After hearing this album, I can understand why. This guy is fantastic."
On June 18, 1967, he made his National television debut on the Ed Sullivan Show. On 1969 Mitchell appeared on the "Here's To Veterans" Radio Show episode 1084, where he discussed his time stationed in Korea.
Discography
Albums
"The Golden Hands Of Rubin Mitchell" (pre-1967)
"Presenting Rubin Mitchell" (1967)
"The Remarkable Rubin" (1968)
"Alright, Okay, You Win" (unknown year)
Compilation Appearances during his lifetime:
"The Capitol Disc Jockey Album" (February 1967)
"The Capitol Disc Jockey Album" (June 1967)
"Silver Platter Service From Hollywood: Sides 257 & 258" in 1967
"eight-track stereo 6548" (1967)
Compilation "Traumreise" released in Germany 1968
Compilation "Big Band Ball 1" released in Germany 1968
Squeeze Play: "60-Second" Breaks From Capitol (1968)
"eight-track stereo 6574" (1968)
Death
He died in Miami, Florida on December 21, 1972. His wife, Louise, later petitioned for the Army to assist with a gravemarker.
References
- ^ "THE MIAMI TIMES AUGUST 18, 1951". TheMiamiTimes. Retrieved 7 July 2024.
- ^ "Reuben Mitchell Discogs". Retrieved 5 July 2024.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
Las Vegaswas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ "Rubin Mitchell Trio Presents NAACP Benefit Performance". The Skidmore News - April 19, 1965, Page 5. Retrieved 5 July 2024.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
The Glen Falls Timeswas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ "Rubin Mitchell 18 Month Residency at The Flamingo". Glens Falls Times - June 22, 1962. Retrieved 5 July 2024.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
Plaza Sound Studioswas invoked but never defined (see the help page). - ^ "Rough Trade Records". Radio Sound Broadcast. Retrieved 5 July 2024.
- ^ "Billboard Magazine, Feb 11th 1967 Page 50". Billboard Magazine. Retrieved 7 July 2024.
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