Biography
An exciting tenor saxophonist whose honking and squeals (although influenced by Illinois Jacquet) were quite distinctive, Willis Jackson was also a strong improviser who sounded perfectly at home with organ groups. He played locally in Florida early on, until joining Cootie Williams (on and off during 1948-1955). His two-sided honking feature Gator Tail with Cootie (which earned Williams a lifelong nickname) was a hit in 1948, and he started recording as a leader in 1950. Jackson had a romantic and creative partnership with singer Ruth Brown for eight years, and often appeared on her recordings during this era. His extensive series of Prestige recordings (1959-1964) made him a big attraction on the organ circuit. Although generally overlooked by critics, Willis Jackson continued working steadily in the 1970s and '80s. In 1977, he recorded one of the finest albums of his career for Muse, Bar Wars. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi



 
Videos
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Willis 'Gator Tail' Jackson live on Ed Sullivan
Willis Jackson - Later for the gator aka Coxsone's hop - Oldies 45 -1958
Willis "Gatortail" Jackson - Later for the Gator
This'll Get To Ya-Willis Gator Jackson & Jack McDuff-1960
Willis Jackson Blue Gator
Willis Gator Jackson- Back and Forth
Willis Jackson with Pat Martino - "Gator Tail"
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