Joe Farnsworth Remembers the Masters: Billy Higgins

During this trying period, I’ve had some time to reflect. I’ve been thinking a lot about some of the masters of our music whom I love so much. Many of these great, I saw many times playing in the city. Some, I got to meet and even play with. Here’s something I put together about one of those very musicians, Billy Higgins. I hope you enjoy!

[@stalliec]

Thank you Joe - this is preserving history and helping us learn from the past and grow. So appreciated!

[@ByronWookieLandham]

Thanks Joe! Good for brother. You're a historian, and that's important!🙏🏾BL

[@myroncohen7619]

Well done!!

[@stevecristiano8543]

Thank you for this, Joe. I was blessed to have seen Billy in performance more than any other drummer. In his inimitable way, he always elevated the music. Ultimately, I had several opportunities to hang, break bread and visit with Billy in his home. What a spirit and intellect that man possessed. In the last decade of his life, he operated the World Stage, A jazz and cultural center in the Leimert Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. It is still in operation today. Just ask Willie Jones III how important oh that little room was… And it is.

[@roberthall7336]

Thanks very much, Joe. You are a terrific player yourself, and it's inspiring what you share about the greats. Helpful, informative and caring in these crazy days. May you and your loved ones be very well, too.

[@andyquinn1125]

Thanks Joe. Lucky enough to see Billy several times. Him and Victor Lewis were my favorite. Love to hear about Victor.

[@renaudpenant]

A gold mine, merci your Farnship!!!!

[@bobblues1158]

Joe thank you so much for filling the down time with your observations of the masters. I sat in that seat many nights to watch the drummers, although I am a saxophonist. I also was with Thad and Mel and then Mel. But I did experience the Vanguard Vibe. Was lucky enough to be playing the afternoon jam at the Star Cafe on 14th street and Billy Higgins came in and played a set It was how you described. He did not overtake, he just played, and there was this magic in the room.

[@larrbrown7277]

Thanks your drumming and comments mean a lot to me.

[@tylerkreutel3838]

Thank you for taking the time to share some of things you saw Billy play in person, incredibly valuable information. Would love to hear you talk about Arthur Taylor as well. Looking forward to any future videos, Thanks.

[@patrykdobosz9664]

So cool to hear this stories! Thank You!

[@ChrisSmithJazzDrumHang]

This is the shit Joe, thank you so so much for posting these! Amazing.