Henry "Red" Allen is one of the most influential trumpet players in jazz music. His unique style, though traditional, has served as a reference for more contemporary players, such as Miles Davis. Red's upper register solos are incredible: just when you think he's at the highest point possible, he'll jump an octave. Known for his very loose playing and rhythmic 'womping,' Red joined the King Oliver band in St. Louis in 1927.
In his long career he played with Coleman Hawkins, Pee Wee Russell, J.C. Higginbotham and Jelly Roll Morton.