Wholesale District in Indianapolis in Marion County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
J.L. "Wes" Montgomery
Born in Indianapolis on March 6, 1923, Wes Montgomery was part of a musical family and first performed in local clubs and regional jazz venues. He and his brothers, Buddy and Monk, were a popular musical trio. Wes Montgomery eventually became recognized as one of the greatest jazz guitarists of all time.
As his popularity grew, he played in bands that traveled across the United States to perform. When he returned to Indianapolis to be with his family, he worked in a city factory during the day and played Indianapolis jazz venues at night.
As he developed his identity as a solo artist, he formed his own ensemble and toured widely throughout the country. He won two Grammy awards for "Best Instrumental Jazz Performance." He recorded frequently and generated an international following. Largely self-taught, he developed innovative techniques that contemporaries and later musicians imitated.
At the height of his popularity, he died suddenly of a heart attack in Indianapolis on June 15, 1968.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Arts, Letters, Music. In addition, it is included in the Grammy Award Winners series list. A significant historical date for this entry is March 6, 1923.
Location. 39° 45.859′ N, 86° 9.573′
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Booth Tarkington (a few steps from this marker); Hotel Severin (within shouting distance of this marker); Tom Jernstedt (within shouting distance of this marker); The Rost Jewelry Company Building (within shouting distance of this marker); D.P. Erwin & Company Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Deschler Building (within shouting distance of this marker); Lew Wallace (within shouting distance of this marker); St. Elmo Steak House (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Indianapolis.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 27, 2019, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 217 times since then and 39 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 27, 2019, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
