Legendary trumpeter and founding member of the Memphis Horns, known for his iconic soulful sound and collaborations with legendary artists like Otis Redding and Aretha Franklin.
Wayne Jackson was an American soul and R&B musician, best known for his iconic trumpet playing in The MarKeys and as one of The Memphis Horns, hailed as arguably the greatest soul horn section ever. His signature sound can be heard on hit records by Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and many other legendary artists.
Born on November 24, 1941, in West Memphis, Arkansas, Jackson's music career began to take shape when he partnered with Andrew Love, with whom he would later create the unmistakable horn sound at Stax Records.
Jackson's time at Stax Records was marked by his contributions to numerous hit records, including Otis Redding's "Pain in My Heart" and "Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul". He also lent his voice to the MarKeys' singular hit "Last Night", which became a staple of the Memphis sound.
After leaving Stax Records, Jackson and Love incorporated themselves into The Memphis Horns, freelancing and recording sessions for artists such as Neil Diamond, Elvis Presley, Al Green, and Dusty Springfield. They also toured with The Doobie Brothers, Jimmy Buffett, Robert Cray, and numerous other performers.
In 2012, The Memphis Horns received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for outstanding artistic significance in music.
Jackson continued to stay active in the music scene, earning an income by giving personalized guided tours at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, even after his health began to decline. He passed away on June 21, 2016, at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential soul musicians of all time.
Wayne Jackson's contributions to the Memphis sound and his impact on soul and R&B music continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
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