Lionel Hampton, the "King of the Vibes," was a trailblazing American jazz musician whose rhythmic vitality and showmanship captivated audiences worldwide. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Hampton is best known for his virtuosic work on the vibraphone, but his talents extended to drums, piano, and vocals. He collaborated with jazz legends such as Benny Goodman, Charlie Parker, and Quincy Jones, and led his own orchestra, leaving an indelible mark on swing, bebop, and even rock and roll. Beyond his musical prowess, Hampton was a composer of over 200 works, including classics like "Flying Home" and the "King David Suite," and a dedicated educator and civil rights activist. His contributions to jazz were recognized with numerous honors, including the National Medal of Arts in 1996. Hampton's legacy endures as a pioneer of integrated music and a goodwill ambassador for the United States.
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