Roger Chaput

Roger Chaput, born on March 23, 1909, in Paris, was a renowned French guitarist who played a significant role in the evolution of jazz guitar. From an early age, Chaput showed a natural talent for music and began his musical journey by playing guitar and mandolin. He initially gained experience performing alongside Michel Péguri and Albert Carrara, where he showcased his skills on the banjo in the bal-musette style.

In 1931, Chaput’s career took a momentous turn when he joined the jazz ensemble led by double-bassist Louis Vola. This collaboration provided him with valuable experience and opportunities to further develop his musical prowess.

In 1934, a pivotal moment in Chaput’s career occurred when he joined the renowned Quintette du Hot Club de France, alongside Django Reinhardt, Stéphane Grappelli, and Joseph Reinhardt. As a rhythm guitarist, he made significant contributions to the group’s iconic recordings, including timeless pieces like “Daphne,” “Belleville,” and “Ultrafox.”

Chaput was revered for his extraordinary guitar technique, characterized by superlative arpeggios, exquisite melodies, and the ability to execute ultra-fast licks and solos. His technical mastery and artistry added a distinctive flair to the music he played.

After leaving the Hot Club in 1938, Chaput became a member of the Hot Club Swing Stars, where he continued to make significant musical contributions until 1943. Throughout his career, he had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed musicians such as Dicky Wells, Gus Viseur, Richard Blareau, Eddie South, Bill Coleman, Alix Combelle, André Ekyan, and Buck Clayton.

In 1965, Chaput recorded his first self-titled album, “Tonton Guitare 1,” which showcased his exceptional talent and musicality. This was followed by the release of “Tonton Guitare 2” in 1970, further cementing his reputation as a formidable guitarist.

In addition to his musical accomplishments, Chaput had another artistic side as a cartoonist and painter, which was evident in his contributions to the famous “Jazz Hot” magazine. His talents extended beyond the realm of music, allowing him to express his creativity through various artistic mediums.

Roger Chaput’s contributions to jazz guitar left an indelible mark on the music scene. His technical brilliance, combined with his unique artistic sensibility, continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day. Through his recordings and artistic endeavors, Chaput’s legacy lives on, ensuring that his invaluable contributions to the world of jazz guitar will never be forgotten.