COUNT BASIE - DOCUMENT SIGNED 01/24/1949 - HFSID 257335

COUNT BASIE
Count Basie signed this contract in 1949 to release the William Morris Agency as his agent for $1,015.72.
Document signed "Count Basie". Also signed by representative of the William Morris Agency. 8¼x10¾, 2 pages, single-sided sheets, on William Morris Agency letterhead with two file holed at top edge. Jan. 24, 1949. Addressed to Mr. Count Basie, New York City. Basie signed this contract to release the William Morris Agency as his agent. According to this document, he had to pay the agency $1,015.72 by Jun 30, 1949 before they'd let him go. Basie (1904-1984, born William Basie in Red Bank, New Jersey) was one of the best-loved of all bandleaders. His unique piano style led him to be called one of the leaders of swing music, and he is credited with introducing blues to mainstream audiences through his polished versions of blues rhythms. The great interpreter of swing formed his own band in 1935, which placed over 30 recordings in the Top 40 from 1937 to 1968 and showcased such legendary performers as Billie Holiday and saxophonist Lester Young. He also wrote One O'Clock Jump, now a jazz standard. Basie appeared in films from 1938 to 1964. His last was a memorable scene with his orchestra in Mel Brooks' Blazing Saddles (1974). The Count Basie Orchestra still tours today, playing the famous arrangements that Basie pioneered. Lightly toned and creased. Top three-quarters of page 1 are discolored. Paper clip impressions and rust stains at top edge of page 1 and on left edge of page 2. Staple holes in upper left corner. Otherwise in fine condition.