Kai Winding (1922–1983) was a Danish-American trombonist, best known for his collaborations with fellow trombonist JJ Johnson and his participation in Miles Davis’ “Birth of The Cool”.

Kai Winding

Winding was born in Aarhus, Denmark, but his family moved to the US when he was 12. He first found success playing with Stan Kenton’s orchestra, as well as part of Miles Davis’ famous Nonet. Subsequently he formed a quintet together with JJ Johnson, which also featured Charles Mingus. Winding experimented with instruments and arrangements in many brass ensembles, and his most well-known recording was “More” for the film “Mondo Cane.” With its decidedly country and western lilt, the recording was also the first to feature the early analogue synthesizer Ondioline. Winding passed away from illness aged 60.