Harold Ashby, born March 27, 1925 was an American jazz tenor saxophonist who was known for his warm, lyrical tone and his improvisational skills. He was also a versatile musician who played with a wide range of artists, including Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Milt Hinton.
Ashby was born in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1925. He began playing saxophone at a young age and was influenced by the music of Lester Young and Ben Webster. After graduating from high school, Ashby served in the U.S. Navy. After leaving the Navy, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in music.
In New York, Ashby quickly became a fixture on the jazz scene. He played with a number of notable bands, including those led by Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Milt Hinton. Ashby also released several albums under his own name.
Ashby’s playing was characterized by its warm, lyrical tone and his improvisational skills. He was also a versatile musician who could play a variety of styles, including swing, bebop, and hard bop. Ashby’s music was influenced by a wide range of artists, including Lester Young, Ben Webster, and John Coltrane.
Ashby died in 2003 at the age of 78. He left behind a legacy as one of the finest tenor saxophonists of his generation. His music continues to inspire and entertain saxophone players and jazz fans all over the world.
Page last updated 10/14/2023.
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