Leo Mathisen
| Leo Mathisen | |
|---|---|
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Hans Leo Mathiassen |
| Also known as | The Lion |
| Born | October 10, 1906 |
| Origin | Denmark |
| Died | December 16, 1969 (aged 63) |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation(s) | Pianist, singer, composer, bandleader |
| Instruments | Piano |
| Years active | 1927 – 1953 |
| Associated acts | Erik Tuxen |
Leo "The Lion" Mathisen (10 October 1906 – 16 December 1969) was a Danish jazz pianist, composer, arranger, singer and bandleader. He was a leading figure of the thriving Danish scene during the years around World War II—a period which has been labelled the Golden Age of Danish Jazz—and he is considered to be one of the most significant and original jazz musicians of his day.
Mathisen's main source of inspiration was Fats Waller, both his piano play and his singing, but the later years of his career saw some Bebop influence. His most famous tracks are Take it Easy and To be or not to be. His nickname is a reference to his first name as well as MGM's mascot Leo the Lion. He is also remembered for his characteristic appearance with his flat, centrally parted hair, his thin moustache and, most notably, his fondness of large cigars.
Leo Mathisen was born in Copenhagen in 1906. He worked in a record shop, listened to records and tried to copy the virtuous piano play that he heard. After completing a merchant education, he started working professionally as a pianist in restaurant Arena and with Kai Ewans' band in Restaurant Adlon. The same year he also recorded his first album, The More We Are Together, in collaboration with Victor Cornelius. From 1927 to 1928 he was also part of a trio with Otto Lington and Anker Skjoldborg.
From 1928 through 1931 he performed with Adrian Rollini's orchestra Germany and Sweden and with Max Lefkos' band in Germany and Sweden.
In 1936 Mathisen formed his own band and until 1952 he led various acclaimed orchestras which performed in restaurants in Copenhagen and toured in Scandinavia after the end of World War II also in Germany. They also served as backup bands for various popular singers.
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