David Bee
David Bee, born Ernest Jean Craps on October 17, 1903, in Brussels, Belgium, was a prominent Belgian jazz musician, arranger, and composer. Known for his versatility, Bee was proficient in playing multiple instruments, including the clarinet, harp, piano, and both alto and tenor saxophones. He began his musical career with the group Bistrouille ADO from 1924 to 1925, and subsequently co-founded the ensemble Red Beans with Peter Packay, which toured extensively across Western Europe.
Upon returning to Belgium, Bee joined Robert De Kers's band and performed in Paris with renowned musicians such as Benny Carter and Willie Lewis. During the early 1940s, he recorded with Gus Deloof and later collaborated with Robert Bosmans and Chas Dolne. His recording career extended into the late 1950s.
Bee was also a celebrated composer, with notable compositions including "High Tension," recorded by Luis Russell, and "Obsession," which charted in the UK in 1960 when recorded by Reg Owen. He was married to singer Claude Alix, with whom he composed and arranged music, and was the father of singer Claude Lombard.
David Bee's contributions to jazz and his work as a composer and arranger have left a lasting impact on the music world. He passed away in 1992.