sideman

noun

side·​man ˈsīd-ˌman 

: a member of a band or orchestra and especially of a jazz or swing orchestra

Examples of sideman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Three other musicians are getting in via the Musical Excellence Award, as also selected by the board: producer Thom Bell; pianist Nicky Hopkins, a frequent Rolling Stones sideman back in the day; and bassist Carole Kaye, a famous member of the session players’ ensemble the Wrecking Crew. —Chris Willman, Variety, 28 Apr. 2025

Tom used to call me the co-captain, but the rest of the band never felt like sidemen. —Devon Ivie, Vulture, 25 Mar. 2025

Ayers first recorded as a sideman with saxophonist Curtis Amy before releasing his debut album, West Coast Vibes, in 1963. —Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025

Backing John and Carlile on the album are Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, renowned studio bassist Pino Palladino and guitarist (and Pearl Jam touring sideman and ex-Chili Pepper) Josh Klinghoffer. —Chris Willman, Variety, 5 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sideman

• businessman
• canavan
• caravan
• constantan
• dragoman
• fisherman
• handyman
• harmattan
• journeyman
• marianne
• middleman
• minivan