House Resolution 5

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF JAZZ ODYSSEY, MOSE ALLISON, AND ACKNOWLEDGING HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI.

WHEREAS, jazz "bluesician" and songwriter, Mose Allison, born in the Mississippi Delta on his grandfather's farm near the Village of Tippo, was destined for greatness when the child prodigy in him began to shine at age five upon discovering he could play the piano by ear; and

WHEREAS, it was during his formative high school years that Mose, who played trumpet in the marching and dance band, began writing his own music after listening to the music of Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller, Duke Ellington, Louis Jordan, and his prime inspiration, Nat King Cole; and

WHEREAS, after a year at the University of Mississippi, he went into the Army in l946, playing in the Army Band in Colorado Springs and performing with accomplished musicians from around the country in small groups at NCO and Officer’s Clubs; and

WHEREAS, returning to “Ole Miss” he joined the dance band as arranger, piano and trumpet player, and after a year on the road, Mose married, returned to college at Louisiana State University and graduated in 1952 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and Philosophy; and

WHEREAS, with dazzling perseverance, Mose Allison, whose music is sought after internationally, particularly in England, continues to blaze new trails into the uncharted territories of the musical industry, by exhibiting an insurmountable dedication to his musical career; and

WHEREAS, now 77 years of age, Mr. Allison continues touring extensively, averaging over 125 concerts per year around the world, giving him rightful claim to the title of "Jazz Odyssey," which is most befitting, as he has long established himself on the world's stage; and

WHEREAS, despite having an illustrious career and appearing in some of the world's most eminent venues, Mose Allison is a proud ambassador of his home state, and Mississippi is even prouder of the achievements of its native son; and

WHEREAS, now at the peak of his performing career, Mose resides on Long Island with his wife, Audre, where they raised four children: Alissa, an attorney; John, a telecommunication specialist; Janine, a psychiatrist; and Amy Allison, also a successful and respected singer songwriter in New York with her own group; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we recognize the legendary, Mr. Allison, who has served with distinction as an ambassador for the State of Mississippi, bringing honor to his home community, region and state:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend the career of a true jazz odyssey, Mose Allison, and extend to him our best wishes for success in all his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mose Allison and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.