James Moody: 80 Years Young - Live at the Blue Note, March 26, 2005

It's an absolute thrill to share the memories of an unforgettable night—James Moody's 80th birthday celebration at the legendary Blue Note in New York City in 2005. This was the grand finale of a weeklong celebration that had already featured amazing performances from jazz giants like Jimmy Heath, Ray Barretto, Mike Longo, and George Wein. This live recording featuring Jon Faddis, Paquito D'Rivera, Slide Hampton, Randy Brecker, Roberta Gambarini and Cedar Walton is a true tribute to the extraordinary talent surrounding Moody that night.

The rhythm section, with the versatile David Hazeltine on piano, the flawless Todd Coolman on bass, and the dynamic Adam Nussbaum on drums, laid down a perfect groove to fuel the magic. The energy wasn't just onstage—the room was buzzing with jazz legends, sports figures, TV personalities, family, friends, and fans who all came together to honor this remarkable man. The Blue Note was alive with love, joy, incredible artistry, and the unmistakable heartbeat of a community united in reverence for James Moody.

James Moody 80 Years Young is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of his music and the deep connections he created throughout his legendary career. Moody was a man whose music still inspires us today and whose spirit continues to live on in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to experience his genius.

I want to thank Steven Bensusan, The Blue Note, Ina Dittke, Regan McGowan, photographer Dino Perrucci, Steve Remote from Aura Sonic Audio, John Bishop and Origin, Carolyn McClair, Frank Moten, Michael Carlson, Jeff Levenson and a special thank you to Paul Wickliffe at Skyline Productions, Inc. who mixed and mastered, for his infinite patience, understanding and getting our vision right.

With so much love and gratitude,
Linda Moody

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Additional Notes by Todd Coolman

The music contained herein, recorded live at the Blue Note on March 26, 2005 is presented as a "Celebration of James Moody's 80th Birthday," but it is far more than that. It is a document of Moody's abundant humanity and the limitless love, admiration, and respect bestowed upon Moody by his fellow musicians and fans. The man and his music were great healers, touching people from all walks of life. The audience on this occasion was typical of his audiences around the world. They resembled a meeting of the General Assembly at the United Nations. From the butcher, the baker, and the candlestick maker, and everything in-between, Moody's humanity was the common thread. Journalists, professional athletes, actors, dancers, television and film celebrities, just plain folks from, "Back in the day," and, of course, several of his fellow musicians packed the crowded tables and standing room only bar at the Blue Note in New York City in celebration.

A host of, "Who's Who" jazz musicians volunteered their time and talent as they took various turns joining Moody on the bandstand. Jon Faddis, Slide Hampton, Paquito D'Rivera, Randy Brecker, Cedar Walton, and Roberta Gambarini all sat in and played magnificently. Moody is showcased here playing his two principal instruments, the tenor saxophone and flute, and he also flexes his indispensable vocal explorations, filled with musical surprises and his ever-ready wit and humor. On the right night, one could also hear him play soprano and alto saxophones, and even clarinet with equal proficiency! In fact, Moody (as he preferred to be addressed, often saying, "Only my Mother can call me James") was such a devoted musician, practicing for hours daily, that he was always in top form, no matter what era or age.

This recording makes it obvious that Moody's music and spirit will live on forever and it serves as a reminder to all musicians that one can always explore, develop, and improve, both musically and personally. His persona still permeates this life and sets an example for all of us to aspire to. Thank you, Moody, for always giving and swinging.

Liner Notes copyright © 2025 Todd Coolman.

80 Years Young: Live at the Blue Note, March 26, 2005 can be purchased here.

Contact Todd Coolman at All About Jazz.
Grammy award-winning bassist Todd Coolman is among the most sought-after musicians on the New York music scene today.

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