Charles Edward Smith (jazz)

Charles Edward Smith (1904-1970) was an American jazz critic, writer, and record producer. He was a prominent figure in the early years of jazz scholarship and advocacy, contributing significantly to the understanding and appreciation of the music.

Smith was a prolific writer, publishing articles in a variety of magazines and journals, including Esquire, The Saturday Review, and DownBeat. He often focused on the historical and social contexts of jazz, exploring its roots in African American culture and its evolution over time. He also wrote extensively about individual musicians, offering insightful analyses of their styles and contributions.

In addition to his writing, Smith was an active record producer. He worked with several labels, including Commodore Records and Folkways Records, to document and promote jazz music. He produced important recordings by artists such as Jelly Roll Morton, Sidney Bechet, and Lead Belly, helping to preserve their legacies for future generations.

Smith's contributions to jazz were recognized during his lifetime. He was a founding member of the Institute of Jazz Studies at Rutgers University and received several awards for his work. His writings and recordings remain valuable resources for anyone interested in learning more about the history of jazz. He is remembered as a passionate advocate for the music and a dedicated scholar who helped to shape its critical discourse.