Booker Pitman

Origin

Maryland, EUA

Also known as

Booker Pittman

Years active

1920

Genres

jazz, rhythm and blues

Instruments

saxophone

Biography

Booker Pitman was an American saxophonist who found his definitive home in Brazilian music, having moved to the country in 1937. The grandson of Booker T. Washington and son of a music teacher, he built a solid jazz career in the United States and Europe before crossing the Atlantic, initially brought by musician Romeu Silva. In Brazil, he became affectionately known as "Buca" and was part of the vibrant artistic scene of the time, playing at the Cassino da Urca and rubbing shoulders with greats like Pixinguinha.

In addition to his instrumental contribution, Booker left his mark on Brazilian television alongside his stepdaughter, singer and actress Eliana Pittman. Together, they hosted a highly successful show on TV Globo in 1966, aimed at spreading jazz and rhythm and blues to the Brazilian public. His artistic journey in the country consolidated an important cultural bridge between North American sounds and Brazil's rich musical tradition.

He passed away in Rio de Janeiro in 1969, a victim of laryngeal cancer, leaving an indelible legacy in the history of Brazilian instrumental music. His association with central figures of our culture, such as Jorge Guinle and Pixinguinha, testifies to his deep integration into the national artistic scene.