Eddie Harris
Eddie Harris was an innovative jazz multi-instrumentalist, primarily known for his work on the saxophone and his pioneering use of plugged-in electronic effects. Born on October 20, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois, Harris was an eclectic and imaginative musician whose career spanned from the 1960s to the 1990s. Despite being underrated by critics, he was popular with audiences for his experimental approach to jazz, which included elements of hard bop, jazz-funk, mainstream jazz, soul jazz, and fusion.
Harris' musical journey began in church, where he sang and played hymns by ear on the piano from the age of five. He studied music at Du Sable High School under the legendary band director Walter Dyett and later attended Roosevelt College. His professional career started as a pianist, backing saxophonist Gene Ammons and performing with jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Lester Young. After serving in the military and playing with the 7th Army band in Europe, Harris settled in New York, continuing to perform primarily as a pianist.
Harris achieved significant accomplishments throughout his career. He was the first jazz artist to release a gold-selling record with his 1961 adaptation of the "Exodus" movie theme. He was renowned as the best player of the electric Varitone sax, showcased on his 1967 album "The Electrifying Eddie Harris." His composition "Freedom Jazz Dance" became a standard, famously covered by Miles Davis. Harris also innovated by creating new instruments through the combination of brass and reed mouthpieces. His performance with Les McCann at the 1969 Montreux Jazz Festival, released as "Swiss Movement," became one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time.
Eddie Harris passed away on November 5, 1996, in Los Angeles, California, leaving behind a legacy of musical innovation and a diverse catalog that continues to be celebrated for its excellence.
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