Pookie Johnson and Wes Montgomery

June 02, 2024

Saxophonist Alonzo “Pookie” Johnson is a legend of the Avenue jazz scene. Many local jazz fans consider Johnson one of the greatest saxophonists in Indianapolis history.

Johnson was born in Indianapolis in October 1927. He began performing locally as a teenager in the 1940s. Johnson studied music at Crispus Attucks High School and the Jordan Conservatory.

Johnson was a veteran of the Avenue club scene playing at legendary venues such as the Sky Club, George’s Bar, The P&P Club, Henri’s, the Golden West, Sunset Terrace, and the British Lounge.

During his 60-plus year career, Johnson performed with the greatest jazz players in Naptown – including Slide Hampton, Jimmy Coe, Carl Perkins, Virgil Jones, David Baker, Errol Grandy, Freddie Hubbard, and more.

But Johnson is best known for his long association with the Montgomery Brothers: Buddy, Monk, and Wes. Along with drummer Sonny Johnson,  they performed across Naptown as the Montgomery-Johnson Quintet.

This week on Echoes of Indiana Avenue, we'll share music featuring Pookie Johnson’s recordings with Wes Montgomery.