The youngest of the three
Montgomery brothers,
Buddy Montgomery has long been a reliable, if underrated, vibraphonist and pianist. He became a professional in 1948 and the following year toured with
Big Joe Turner. He played piano with
Slide Hampton in his native Indianapolis, served in the Army, and then was a member (on vibes) of the popular
Mastersounds with his brother
Monk.
Buddy had a brief stint with
Miles Davis (playing vibes) in 1960 and frequently played with brothers
Wes and
Monk (under the guitarist's leadership) in the 1960s. He moved to Milwaukee in 1969, becoming a local fixture and an educator. In the early '80s,
Montgomery moved to Oakland, where he recorded for producer
Orrin Keepnews on Landmark and with
the Riverside Reunion Band.
Buddy Montgomery's earlier dates as a leader were for World Pacific (1957), Fantasy, Riverside, Milestone, and Impulse (1969). ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide