![cover image](https://wikiwandv2-19431.kxcdn.com/_next/image?url=https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b5/King_Curtis.png/640px-King_Curtis.png&w=640&q=50)
King Curtis
American saxophonist (1934–1971) / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For the professional wrestler, see King Curtis Iaukea.
Curtis Ousley (born Curtis Montgomery; February 7, 1934 – August 13, 1971),[1] known professionally as King Curtis, was an American saxophonist who played rhythm and blues, jazz, and rock and roll. A bandleader, band member, and session musician, he was also a musical director and record producer. A master of the instrument, he played tenor, alto, and soprano saxophone.[2] He played riffs and solos on hit singles such as "Respect" by Aretha Franklin (1967), and "Yakety Yak" by The Coasters (1958) and his own "Soul Twist" (1962), "Soul Serenade" (1964), and "Memphis Soul Stew" (1967).[3]
Quick Facts Background information, Birth name ...
King Curtis | |
---|---|
![]() King Curtis, from an advertisement for his 1971 single "Whole Lotta Love" | |
Background information | |
Birth name | Curtis Montgomery |
Also known as | Curtis Ousley |
Born | (1934-02-07)February 7, 1934 Fort Worth, Texas, U.S. |
Died | August 13, 1971(1971-08-13) (aged 37) New York City, U.S. |
Genres | |
Occupation(s) | Musician, bandleader, producer |
Instrument(s) | Saxophone |
Years active | 1950–1971 |
Labels | Atco, Atlantic, Prestige, Capitol |
Close