Illinois Jacquet

Illinois Jacquet is considered one of the most influential tenor saxophonists in the history of jazz music.

Saxophonist

October 31, 1922

July 23, 2004

81

Jean Baptiste Illinois Jacquet, born on October 31, 1922, in Broussard, Louisiana, was a prominent American jazz tenor saxophonist celebrated for his dynamic and powerful playing style. Gaining fame in 1942 with his recording of “Flying Home,” which became a significant hit and jazz standard, Jacquet’s distinctive style blended elements of R&B, swing, and bebop, establishing him as one of the most innovative tenor saxophone players in the post-swing era.

Some of Jacquet’s other renowned works include “Robbin’s Nest,” “Blues from Louisiana,” “The Soul Explosion,” and “Jacquet’s Got It.” Throughout his career, he was involved in various shows and accomplishments. At the age of 19, Jacquet introduced the honking tenor saxophone sound to the world when he soloed on the Hampton Orchestra’s recording of “Flying Home.” His frantic, high-register solos and full-toned style earned him critical acclaim, as well as public praise and some critical disapproval for his reputation as a squealing sax man.

Besides his musical contributions, Jacquet supported music education by frequently visiting schools to share his knowledge and enthusiasm for jazz with students. He also founded a non-profit organization, The Jazz Foundation of America, which offers assistance to elderly jazz and blues musicians in need.

Illinois Jacquet received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to the jazz genre, including being inducted into the DownBeat Jazz Hall of Fame in 1983 and receiving a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004. He passed away on July 22, 2004, at the age of 81 in Queens, New York City, leaving a lasting legacy as a highly influential tenor saxophonist in jazz music history.