“Regardless of what you play, the biggest thing is keeping the feel going.”

– Wes Montgomery

John Leslie “Wes” Montgomery (March 6, 1923 – June 15, 1968) was an American jazz guitarist. He is widely considered one of the major jazz guitarists, emerging after such seminal figures as Django Reinhardt and Charlie Christian and influencing countless others, including George Benson, Kenny Burrell, Grant Green, Jimi Hendrix, Steve Howe, Lee Ritenour, Russell Malone, Pat Martino and Pat Metheny.

Wes Montgomery was at his peak when he ended his life way too fast (he died of a heart attack within a few minutes after he told his wife that he “didn’t feel very well”).

Here are some lovely videos and a rare sound clip with Wes Montgomery, enjoy!

Wes Montgomery – “Round Midnight”

Wes Montgomery Live from 1965 with three different groups (high quality video)

Personnel: Wes Montgomery: guitar; Pim Jacobs, Harold Mabern, Stan Tracey: piano; Ruud Jacobs, Arthur Harper, Rick Laird: bass; Han Bennink, Jimmy Lovelace, Jackie Dougan: drums.

Wes Montgomery with his brothers – “Naptown Blues” Live at Newport Jazz Festival (1967)

Rare recording of Wes Montgomery & His Brothers Live at Newport Jazz Festival in 1967.

This is the only live recording found of Montgomery Brothers in the 60’s!

Wes Montgomery (g), Buddy Montgomery (p), Monk Montgomery (b), Grady Tate (dr)

Bobby Broom on Wes Montgomery’s 1959 Jazz Guitar Impact

(Bobby Broom himself is a great guitar player)