Teddy Edwards

Teddy Edwards and Dexter Gordon recorded a cutting contest called “The Duel” in 1948. It ended in a draw. Edwards is one of the finest tenor sax players ever and has played with such diverse artists as Milt Jackson, Tom Waits, Jimmy Smith, and Mel Torme. His real talent, however, has been in leading his own groups and he has been doing so for five decades now. He decided to stick with Los Angeles instead of moving to the Big Apple and it has cost him in name recognition. But it hasn't lessened his talent or drive, which remain intact while most of his contemporaries have now retired -- to rest homes or final resting places.