Musician. Born in Los Angeles, California, he was a versatile jazz alto saxophonist, flautist and bass clarinetist. He was one of several multi-instrumentalists to gain prominence in the early 1960s jazz scene, performing with artist to include John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Roy Porter, Charles Mingus and many more. His recording career as a leader began with the Prestige label recording13 albums from April 1960 to September 1961. In 1964, he signed with Blue Note and recorded several albums with his last major studio recording being "Out to Lunch" which is considered his magnum opus. He was on tour in Europe when died in Berlin, West Germany at age 36.
Musician. Born in Los Angeles, California, he was a versatile jazz alto saxophonist, flautist and bass clarinetist. He was one of several multi-instrumentalists to gain prominence in the early 1960s jazz scene, performing with artist to include John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Roy Porter, Charles Mingus and many more. His recording career as a leader began with the Prestige label recording13 albums from April 1960 to September 1961. In 1964, he signed with Blue Note and recorded several albums with his last major studio recording being "Out to Lunch" which is considered his magnum opus. He was on tour in Europe when died in Berlin, West Germany at age 36.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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