Trumpeter Harry “Sweets” Edison was born on October 10, 1915 in Columbus, Ohio and grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. He is perhaps best known for the 13 years he spent as a member of the trumpet section and featured soloist with the Count Basie Orchestra between 1937 and 1950.

After moving back to Columbus when he was 12, Edison took up the trumpet and was playing with local bands while still in his teens. In 1933 he began playing with the Jeter-Pillars Orchestra in Cleveland, and later with Lucky Millinder before joining up with Basie when he was 22. It is said that his nickname “Sweets” was given to him by Lester Young because he was handsome, and all the girls flocked to him when the band performed.

After the Basie band temporarily broke up in 1950 Edison played on the Jazz at the Philharmonic tours and led his own groups. He settled in California and became a much-in-demand studio musician contributing to recordings by Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald. He also worked in many television show orchestras on programs like Hollywood Palace, Leslie Uggams Show and on Sinatra specials. He was the musical director for Redd Foxx's theater shows and his playing was featured in the movie “Lady Sings the Blues.” Edison also performed regularly in Europe and Japan.

Harry “Sweets” Edison died at his home in Columbus, Ohio on July 27, 1999 at the age of 83.

Here is a link to a televised performance by Edison:

"JUST FRIENDS"