Sam Most

Biography

Born in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Sam Most began his incredible musical journey at the age of 18 with the bands of Tommy Dorsey, Shep Fields, Boyd Raeburn, and Don Redman.

His first recording at age 23, a single entitled “Undercurrent Blues”, clearly established him as the “first bop flutist.” The very next year he was awarded Downbeat Magazine’s “Critic’s New Star Award”.

A true pioneer and innovator, Sam is credited as being the first flutist to “sing” or “hum” through the flute, as evidenced by his recordings during the ‘50s.

Between the years of 1953-1958 Sam led and recorded sessions for Prestige, Debut, Vanguard, and Bethlehem, bringing the flute into the forefront of jazz improvisation. He also worked in different settings with Chris Connor, Paul Quinichette, and Teddy Wilson.

After touring with Buddy Rich (1959-1961), Sam moved to Los Angeles and became a studio musician, also working in Las Vegas and Palm Springs with Red Norvo.

Sam resurfaced on the international scene in the late `70s, recording six albums on the Xanadu label, including an album of original compositions, “From the Attic of My Mind.”

In 1987, Sam along with long time friend and producer Fernando Gelbard of LiquidJazz.com, teamed up to record four albums, including “Solo Flute,” an album featuring just Sam on alto flute….you’ve got to check it out!

Sam recorded his last two albums in 2012; “A Time for Love” with Bob Alcivar and the live almum “Indian Summer” with the Rein de Graaff Trio.

Sadly, Sam passed away on June 13, 2013. Although he is no longer with us, his 50+ year musical legacy will live on forever….and you know that heaven is a more swingin’ place with Sam on the bandstand!