Curtis Amy
Tenor Sax
About
Curtis Amy was a hard-bop and soul jazz saxophonist who played a key role in the West Coast Jazz scene of the 1960s. After arriving in Los Angeles in 1955, he quickly established himself, performing in local jazz clubs, recording with Dizzy Gillespie, and signing with Pacific Jazz Records. Amy released a series of albums, collaborating with musicians such as organist Paul Bryant and drummer Frank Butler. He also worked extensively as a session musician, contributing to recordings by The Doors, Carole King, Marvin Gaye, and Smokey Robinson. In the mid-1960s, Amy served as Ray Charles' music director. Curtis Amy passed away from cancer in 2002.
Trivia
Curtis Amy was married to singer Merry Clayton, the two worked together often, including with the Ray Charles orchestra. Dick Bock, head of Pacific Jazz Records, first heard Curtis Amy playing in club called Dynamite Jackson's in the Los Angeles Crenshaw district. The song "Jazzman" by Carole King was inspired by her work with Curtis Amy on her album "Tapestry."
Early Life
Curtis Amy, born in Houston, Texas, in 1927, began playing the clarinet at the age of four. He briefly studied music at Wiley College before joining the U.S. Army in 1947, where he took up the tenor saxophone. After his military service, Amy continued his music education at Kentucky State University. Following his graduation, he taught school in Tennessee while performing at gigs across the Midwest. In 1955, he relocated to Los Angeles and joined a quintet with trombonist Melba Liston, marking the beginning of his West Coast jazz career.
Curtis Amy Solos
1969
Tenor Sax solo - Touch Me - 1969
4/4 rock in A minor at 114 BPM