Hayes Alvis

Hayes Alvis (May 1, 1907 – December 29, 1972) was an American jazz bassist and tuba player.^[1]

Alvis began on drums but switched to tuba and bass after playing with Jelly Roll Morton in 1927–1928.^[2] He played tuba with Earl Hines from 1928 to 1930, and created arrangements for Hines as well.^[2]

He moved to New York City in 1931 and played with Jimmie Noone in the Mills Blue Rhythm Band from 1931 to 1934 and 1936.^[2] An early double-bass solo can be heard on the latter group's "Rhythm Spasm" (1932).^[2] Alvis also occasionally played baritone saxophone in this ensemble as well, and was the group's tour manager.^[2] From 1935 to 1938, he played with Duke Ellington, working with fellow bassist/tuba player Billy Taylor.^[2]

After his period with Ellington, Alvis played with Benny Carter, Joe Sullivan, and Louis Armstrong (in whose ensemble he replaced Pops Foster).^[2] From 1942 to 1945, Alvis played in an U.S. Army band led by Sy Oliver.^[2] After the war, Alvis played with Dave Martin until 1947, and then took a longstanding run as a house musician at the Café Society nightclub in New York City.^[2]

In the 1950s, he played in various swing and Dixieland revival groups, including Wilbur De Paris's.^[2] In the early 1970s, he played with Jay McShann and Tiny Grimes in a trio.^[2]

Hayes Alvis died at his home on December 29, 1972. He was 65 years old.^[3]