Bassist. Merton Alexander Oliver born January 28, 1917 in Herndon, Virginia; died April 19, 1965 in Washington, D.C.
Led group at Log Tavern. Worked with Ralph Hawkins band (1942). Played in Washington sessions organized by Nesuhi Ertegun (1943). Worked with Sonny Dunham (1943-1944), Teddy Powell (1944), Boyd Raeburn (1944), Woody Herman (1949-1950), Elliot Lawrence (1950-1951), Tommy Dorsey (1952).
Member of THE Orchestra. Led groups and backed visiting artists at Club La Comeur in 1954.
Bibliography
Simon, George T. “Band Reviews: Ralph Hawkins.” Metronome, March 1942.
Down Beat. “‘Unknown’ Takes Woody Bass Job,” September 9, 1949.
Down Beat. “Raeburn Schedules Jersey Locations,” July 15, 1944.
Are there any photos of Mert playing in any of these bands?
He is a first cousin, one generation removed and I only found out about him 5 years ago. Heard several recordings he was on and very impressed by his Jazz chops.
I don’t currently have any photos of Mert Oliver, but I’ll keep on the lookout. Thanks for writing!
Thanks Michael! I connected with his Daughter Dale Oliver Grindle. She has only one picture of Mert. Much mystery surrounding him.