Jazz Insights: Bobby Leo Hackett

Robert (Bobby) Leo Hackett became one of the world’s finest cornet players.
Born in Providence in 1915, he created a soft, easy-listening and romantic sound that became unequaled, even today.

Early in his long career, he joined the Glenn Miller Orchestra and was hired by Benny Goodman to perform in his famous 1938 Carnegie Hall Concert.
Later, he did credible work with Eddie Condon and Jack Teagarden.
His most treasured work came with the Jack Gleason Orchestra, soloing on Gleason’s many romantic recorded albums, which are now highly collectible.

In later years, he toured with Tony Bennett, Dizzy Gillespie and Teresa Brewer. He also performed with the Newport Jazz All-Star Band.

Bobby passed away in 1976, with heart failure.He had been inducted into the Rhode Island Musician’s Hall of Fame.