Jimmy Simmons

Jimmy Simmons and Friends: Red, White and You: Homecoming 2005

by Jack Bowers
November 21, 2006

In case the name doesn't ring a bell, Jimmy Simmons is the president of Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas--a university president who doubles on saxophone, clarinet and piano! No kidding. His friends at this Homecoming 2005 concert (and studio recording) include the Lamar University Alumni Jazz Ensemble under director Wayne Dyess and a number of invited guests.

Simmons, whose gritty tenor saxophone is featured on Patrick Williams' “Her Song, is surprisingly good. In other words, he's one hip headmaster who ...