Johnny Hodges

The Profile

Johnny Hodges (1907–1970) was an American jazz alto saxophonist, a defining soloist of the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Nicknamed “Rabbit,” he was renowned for a lyrical, sensuous tone, led acclaimed small groups, and was featured on Ellington/Strayhorn masterpieces including Blood Count. He died of a heart attack during a dental visit.

American jazz alto saxophonist; key soloist with Duke Ellington; nickname: Rabbit; active from the 1920s until 1970; collaborated closely with Billy Strayhorn and featured on Blood Count; early employer of John Coltrane; died in 1970 of a heart attack during a dental visit.

A poetic take on Johnny Hodges: Ellington’s expressionless ‘Rabbit’ with a sweet, sensual alto voice. His bond with Billy Strayhorn surfaces in Blood Count, recorded on Ellington’s tribute album. The review recalls his mentorship of John Coltrane and his death from a heart attack in a dentist’s chair.