Clarinetist Buddy DeFranco has made concert and recording appearances with nearly every important jazz musician in the world, including such legendary figures as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Oscar Peterson, Tommy Dorsey. His playing career spans over half a century and encompasses performances all over the world. The authors chronicle the life of this singular musician, whose tremendous influence on the history and development of jazz has been acknowledged by fellow musicians and critics alike. Leonard Feather calls this a fascinating volume, recognizing DeFranco for the giant he has always been. Photographs from throughout his playing career bring the people and the times to life. Arne Astrup's detailed discography contains exhaustive data unavailable elsewhere.