Django Reinhardt

The Profile

Django Reinhardt (1910–1953) was a Romani-French jazz guitarist and composer, born in Liberchies, Belgium. A pioneer of Gypsy jazz, he co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France with Stéphane Grappelli and became renowned for a virtuosic style shaped by a 1928 fire that limited the use of two fingers on his left hand.

Born 1910 in Liberchies (Belgium); died 1953 in Samois-sur-Seine (France). Romani (Manouche) heritage. Co-founded the Quintette du Hot Club de France with Stéphane Grappelli. Innovator of Gypsy jazz; signature compositions include Minor Swing, Nuages, Djangology, and Daphne. Survived a 1928 fire that impaired two fretting fingers, leading to a distinctive technique. Recorded with Grappelli in Rome in 1949; toured the U.S. and encountered bebop influences; performed with Duke Ellington in 1946.

Two DeBaser reviews spotlight Django Reinhardt’s unique technique, lyrical swing, and late recordings with Stéphane Grappelli. The pieces emphasize his Romani heritage, the 1928 injury that shaped his style, and his enduring influence. Highlights include the Rome 1949 sessions and classics like Minor Swing and Nuages. Les Paul’s praise and nods to bebop influences round out the portrait.