Thanks for sharing that gem.

I heard this on my car radio and was reminded just how good OP was in his prime. He was second only to Art Tatum in technique, and his blues licks were second to none. Judging from how many videos of this tune are on YouTube, I'd say it has become something of a jazz standard. OP's version is the best IMO.

I've been late to explore jazz, and am trying to expose some nephews to it early, so your insights and videos are definitely welcome.

I really don't know anything about jazz, but I still enjoy listening to it. He is obviously enjoying himself and has complete mastery over what he's playing.

I always wonder just how much is improvised on the spur of the moment, and how much is rehearsed, and how do they decide to do either.

It's great! Thanks for posting.

you're welcome. A lot of what any jazz musician plays is improvised, especially in a solo or small combo. Big band music is more tightly arranged, but usually includes some improvisation. You can tell if you listen to two performances of the same tune by the same musicians, because there will be differences in the notes played.

This is quite different from classical music, in which all or most of the notes are specified by the composer. But that's a whole 'nother story.