William C. Bailey, born on July 19, 1902 in Memphis, Tennessee, was an American jazz clarinetist. He began learning clarinet under Franz Schoepp, later joining William Christopher Handy’s band at 15. Bailey’s breakthrough came with his first recordings for King Oliver’s Creole Jazz Band in 1923, followed by work with Fletcher Henderson and collaborations with Louis Armstrong, Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, and Red Allen. He also recorded extensively as a sideman, notably on "Fidgety Feet" (1927) and "Stealin' Apples" (1936). A session with Lionel Hampton lead to "I Know That You Know" (1937), while his tenure with John Kirby’s band (1934‑1946) produced "Tiger Rag" (1938). Post‑war, Bailey performed with Wilbur De Paris, Big Chief Russell Moore, and ultimately joined Louis Armstrong and His All‑Stars. He passed away on April 12, 1967.
