Berisford "Shep" Shephard
Berisford "Shep" Shepherd was an American jazz musician renowned for his versatility and contributions to the genre. Born on January 19, 1917, in Honduras, Shepherd was raised in Philadelphia. His early fascination with music led him to train as a percussionist at the Jules E. Mastbaum Area Conservatory and Vocational School, where he also learned to play the trombone. Initially aspiring to join the Philadelphia Orchestra, his interests shifted to jazz, influenced by his friendship with drummer Jimmy Crawford.
In the 1930s, Shepherd performed with Jimmy Gorham's band in Philadelphia. By 1941, he moved to New York City after being recruited by Benny Carter and began working with Artie Shaw. During World War II, Shepherd served in the U.S. Army's entertainment corps, honing his skills as a composer and arranger while also playing the trombone.
Post-military service, Shepherd joined Bill Doggett's group, where he co-wrote the hit song "Honky Tonk" in 1956. This song continued to provide him with royalties decades later. After leaving Doggett's group in 1959, Shepherd returned to New York, working in Broadway pit orchestras and as a music copyist and arranger. He later moved to California, where he continued his musical career.
Shepherd's collaborations included working with notable musicians such as Patti Page, Lionel Hampton, Lena Horne, Earl Bostic, and Artie Shaw. He was a member of groups like the Bill Doggett Quintet and Trio, and Earl Bostic's Orchestra and Quartet. Shepherd passed away on November 25, 2018, leaving behind a legacy as a multi-instrumental jazz musician, composer, and arranger.
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