Everett Greene Oral History

The Indiana Music History Project presents this oral history with Everett Greene, an Emmy Award–winning bass-baritone whose musical journey spans more than 70 years. Born in Washington, D.C., Greene began singing in doo-wop quartets before serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. After moving to Indianapolis in the mid-1950s, he became a key voice in the thriving Indiana Avenue scene, performing with luminaries such as David Baker, Pookie Johnson, and Russell Webster.

In this interview, Greene reflects on his evolution from local clubs and gospel groups to international stages, including tours with the Count Basie Orchestra, the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, and major jazz festivals worldwide. He shares experiences from theatrical productions like Ain’t Misbehavin’ and In the Heart of the Blues—the latter earning 21 Emmy Awards—as well as insights into his work with The HistoryMakers (now archived in the Library of Congress), his commitment to continuous learning, and his love for blending poetry with song.

Part of the Amazing Indiana Music Stories series, with support from the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation, this oral history offers a vivid portrait of Everett Greene’s artistry and his enduring influence on Indiana’s musical community. Both the Interview Highlight and the Complete Interview can be explored below.

This highlight from Everett Greene’s oral history captures his early memories—growing up on the East Coast, finding his voice in doo-wop quartets, and eventually moving to Indianapolis in the mid-1950s. Greene recalls becoming Wes Montgomery’s next-door neighbor, the friendships that grew from that proximity, and the deep well of talent he encountered along Indiana Avenue during its most vibrant years. The clip offers a warm, personal glimpse into the beginnings of his musical journey, ending with Greene’s simple and heartfelt declaration: “I just want to sing.”

In this full-length oral history, Everett Greene reflects on more than seven decades of music, performance, and personal growth. He traces his path from his early years in Washington, D.C., through his arrival in Indianapolis and the formative experiences he found on Indiana Avenue, to an international career that included collaborations with world-class musicians, theatrical productions, and acclaimed ensemble work. Rich with stories, wisdom, and reflections on craft, the complete interview offers a deep look at the life and artistry of one of Indiana’s most enduring and expressive musical voices.