William McLeish Smith (November 25, 1910 – March 7, 1967)[1] was an American saxophonist and one of the major alto saxophone players of the swing era.

[3] In 1929, Smith became an alto saxophonist for Jimmie Lunceford's band, becoming one of the main stars in the group.

[3] Smith died of cancer on March 7, 1967, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 56.

The other two were Johnny Hodges, who had a fat, luscious tone, and Benny Carter, a model of clean, pure-toned playing.

"[5] With Louis Bellson With Nat King Cole With Harry James With Gene Krupa With others