It never ceases to amaze me how many truly phenomenal musicians call New Orleans home. Most of these musicians are unknown to the jazz world and the rest of the world. I heard Michael Watson play trombone and sing in April 2018 at the French Quarter Festival in New Orleans and was blown away. An incredible trombonist and an extraordinary singer, it is truly odd that more people do not know of this amazing talent.
We heard him play with Bill Summers and his band Jazalsa. Ben Casey on bass, and one of the many great Batiste family drummers on drums. The entire band was outstanding.
To get an idea of the breadth of Michael Watson’s musicianship and talent, here are two videos. At the show I heard, his trombone playing was both explosive and extremely sophisticated all at the same time.
I do not understand why these videos have so few views. I must have strange tastes in music.