One Foot in the Gutter is a classic jazz composition written by Clark Terry. It was first released in 1958 as a Clark Terry Quartet recording featuring Thelonious Monk, and it is primarily an instrumental piece that showcases the improvisational spirit of jazz. Over the years the tune has been recorded by several groups, including the Dave Bailey Sextet in 1960, Jackie Washington in 1976, Bruce Adams Quartet in 1992, Mike Vax in 2000, and Noël Akchoté in 2015. A vocal version credited to Oscar Brown Jr. appeared in 1963, though this rendition is unverified. The track remains a notable part of Clark Terry’s legacy and a staple of classic jazz.
