Introduction
Edward Raymond Müller (June 23, 1911 – April 8, 1991) was a jazz musician who played tenor saxophone and clarinet born in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Life and career
In his early teens, Miller got a job selling newspapers so he would be eligible for a newsboys' band. His professional career began in New Orleans at 16, with his recording debut occurring in 1930. He worked in Ben Pollack's orchestra and then with Bob Crosby. He stayed with Crosby until the band broke up in 1942. He had his own band for a brief time after that before being drafted. However, he was discharged from the military early because of illness and settled in Los Angeles. After that he worked with Pete Fountain, appeared in most of Crosby's reunions, and did club work. Eddie also played with trumpeter Al Hirt.
Miller was also a songwriter, with his best-known song being "Slow Mood," later known as "Lazy Mood" after Johnny Mercer noticed the tune and composed lyrics. Miller was inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1998.
He won numerous Playboy and Esquire Jazz polls, and during his many years on the west coast with, and following, his tenure with the Bob Crosby orchestra was considered one of the finest tenor men in the country. Miller finished a long and distinguished career playing several years with Pete Fountain, living in New Orleans. During that time, he was featured at several Regional Jazz festivals.
Selected discography
As leader
- Eddie Miller and His Blue Notes – Frat Hop (Tops, 1957)
As sideman
- Pete Fountain – The Blues (Coral, 1959)
- Pete Fountain – Standing Room Only (Coral, 1965)
- Godfrey Hirsch – At Pete's Place, New Orleans (Coral, 1965)