Bobby Hackett (January 31, 1915 – June 7, 1976) was an American jazz musician, celebrated for his lyrical cornet and trumpet playing. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Hackett began as a guitarist in local bands before switching to the cornet, inspired by Bix Beiderbecke.
His career took off in the 1930s with stints in big bands, including Glenn Miller’s, where his melodic solo on “String of Pearls” became iconic. Hackett’s warm, delicate tone distinguished him in the swing era.
In the 1940s, he led his own groups, blending Dixieland and swing, and collaborated with legends like Louis Armstrong and Benny Goodman. A versatile sideman, he also played with Jackie Gleason, providing the muted trumpet sound for Gleason’s lush orchestral albums in the 1950s and ‘60s.
Hackett’s jazz recordings, such as Jazz Ultimate with Jack Teagarden, showcased his improvisational finesse. Despite health struggles, including alcoholism, he performed into the 1970s, earning admiration for his emotional depth.
Hackett died of a heart attack in 1976 at 61, leaving a legacy as a master of melody whose understated style influenced generations of jazz musicians.
