I saw him in Denver back in the late 70's with . . . Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass! Still one of the most amazing concerts I have ever seen. All that greatness on one stage! Fantastic!
My college Jazz band was playing a festival at Colorado State during that time. We managed to get the night off and got tickets. It was great. After the concert, we went to a Ramada Inn bar, of all places, and caught a couple sets of Lou Donaldson. It was a night to remember!
While living in london in 74 I also saw Sonny Rollins at Ronnie Scott's; that performance was an ephinamy for me on just how great of an art form jazz was.....plus it happened in small dark places, late at night, with hot chicks and a cool scene. I was hooked !