Jean-Baptiste Illinois Jacquet, born on October 30, 1922, in Broussard, Louisiana, was an influential American jazz tenor saxophonist. Known for his pioneering role in the development of the honking style of tenor saxophone playing, Jacquet is best remembered for his iconic solo on "Flying Home" with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra in 1942, which is often cited as the first R&B saxophone solo. This performance marked a significant moment in jazz history, influencing countless saxophonists who followed.

Raised in Houston, Texas, Jacquet came from a musical family; his father was a part-time bandleader, and his siblings were also musicians. He began his musical journey playing in his father's band and later joined the Milton Larkin Orchestra at the age of 15. In 1939, seeking to escape the segregation of the South, Jacquet moved to Los Angeles, where he connected with Nat King Cole and eventually joined Lionel Hampton's band, switching from alto to tenor saxophone at Hampton's request.

Jacquet's career spanned over six decades, during which he played with notable bands, including Cab Calloway's Orchestra, and formed his own groups. He was also featured in the film "Stormy Weather" and participated in Norman Granz's Jazz At The Philharmonic concerts, further solidifying his status as a jazz legend. In addition to his work as a bandleader and composer, Jacquet was one of the few jazz musicians to incorporate the bassoon into his performances.

Illinois Jacquet passed away on July 22, 2004, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer in jazz and rhythm and blues music.