Conte Candoli, a versatile jazz trumpeter, was a prominent figure in the cool jazz and hard bop scenes. Born on July 12, 1927, in Mishawaka, Indiana, to Italian immigrant parents, Candoli's musical journey took him from the Midwest to the West Coast, where he became a staple in the big bands of jazz legends like Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Benny Goodman, and Dizzy Gillespie. His career reached new heights as the trumpet section leader in Doc Severinsen's Tonight Show Band, showcasing his exceptional talent and adaptability. Candoli's discography, spanning over 200 songs, is a testament to his enduring influence and musical prowess.