In 1960 Max Roach invited me to New York, to study and mentor-ship with him. Which I did until 1964. It was a mixture of farther, teacher, career counselor and much more. It was simply amazing!

In 1960 I joined the Charlie Mingus band The Mingus Period was a very revealing time for me. It gave me far more confidence in my understanding of Jazz history as is personified in Mingus’ music. I learned a lot from Mingus.

In 1964 I Joined the Bud Powell Trio. Opened at Birdland on Broadway and 52nd. Never did I think that music could be performed at such a high level. It was profoundly electrifying-