Alfred "Pee Wee" Ellis
Alfred "Pee Wee" Ellis, born Alfred James Rogers on April 21, 1941, in Bradenton, Florida, was a renowned American saxophonist, composer, and arranger. He was a pivotal figure in the development of funk music, known for his work with James Brown in the 1960s. Ellis co-wrote and arranged several of Brown's hits, including "Cold Sweat" and "Say It Loud – I'm Black and I'm Proud," blending his jazz background with Brown's R&B to create a new musical genre. Ellis was also recognized for his contributions to jazz, soul, and world music.
Raised in a musically inclined family, Ellis moved to Rochester, New York, after the tragic death of his stepfather. There, he began his musical journey, performing with future jazz luminaries like Ron Carter and Chuck Mangione. A chance meeting with saxophonist Sonny Rollins led to weekly lessons that profoundly influenced his style. Ellis attended the Manhattan School of Music, further honing his jazz skills.
In 1965, Ellis joined the James Brown Revue, where he became the bandleader and music director, co-writing 26 songs with Brown. After leaving Brown's band in 1969, Ellis pursued a career in jazz, working with artists such as George Benson and Dave Liebman. He also collaborated with Van Morrison and was part of the JB Horns alongside Maceo Parker and Fred Wesley.
Ellis settled in Somerset, England, in the latter part of his life, where he continued to perform and arrange music. He led the Pee Wee Ellis Assembly and engaged in projects highlighting the impact of funk on popular culture. Ellis passed away on September 23, 2021, leaving a legacy as a key architect of funk and a respected figure in the jazz community.
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