Jazz musician. Born in Louisville, Kentucky. Originally a drummer, he later introduced the vibraphone into jazz on a recording with Louis Armstrong in 1930. He came to prominence as a member of Benny Goodman's small groups in the late 1930s. He formed his first big band in 1942, continuing as a leader until the 1990s, and presenting his entertaining blend of musicianship and showmanship on many tours. In 2002, Hampton died in New York at the age of 94.