Crystal Joy Albert’s Memories of Monk

Crystal Joy Albert's memories of Thelonious Monk as compiled from an interview conducted by F. Norman Vickers: I was introduced to Monk by pianist John Malachi, a friend I met during my Miami days singing and playing at the Lord Calvert Hotel. He was musical director and accompanist for Al Hibbler, one of the many fine acts featured that season at the hotel. John always traveled with his Wurlitzer electric piano. He set it up in the bar section of the hotel for jam sessions after shows. Needless to say, this was a big attraction. Every night was an adventure in great jazz! I got to meet and sometimes even play with the best musicians in town, such as Cannonball, Toots, Kenny Clarke ... very exciting times! Fast forward to several months later. I was back in New York City, and Al Hibbler came into the Apollo Theater for an engagement. John invited me to a day of shows, three or four plus dress rehearsal! I watched dress rehearsal in the audience and got a real feel for the show. Then I hung out backstage and enjoyed the comaraderie of the visiting celebrities and the guys in the band. Al Hibbler had a wicked sense of humor and kept everyone in stitches. I watched all the shows with the same excitement every time. As if that wasn’t enough music for everyone, there was word of a se