Tony Reedus
American jazz musician (1959–2008)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Tony Reedus (September 22, 1959 – November 16, 2008) was an American jazz drummer.
Tony Reedus | |
|---|---|
| Born | September 22, 1959 Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Died | November 16, 2008 (aged 49) New York City, U.S. |
| Genres | Jazz |
| Occupation | Musician |
| Instrument | Drums |
| Years active | 1981–2008 |
| Labels |
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| Formerly of |
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Biography
Reedus was born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1959.[1] At age 14, he began playing the drums, soon joining his school band.[1] His uncle, James Williams, a pianist for The Jazz Messengers, inspired him to play jazz.[1] In 1978, he began attending Memphis State University, studying music and playing in local clubs.[2] Trumpeter Woody Shaw asked Reedus to audition for his band in New York, following a performance at Blues Alley in Memphis, and in 1980, he left college to join Shaw's group.[2]
Reedus first gained attention performing in Woody Shaw's band in 1981, remaining with the group until it disbanded in 1983.[1] He has also played with Dave Stryker, Mulgrew Miller, Mike Nock, Kenny Garrett, Benny Golson, James Williams, and Anthony Wonsey, among others, and recorded five albums as a leader.
He noted his influences as drummers Art Blakey, Louis Hayes, Elvin Jones, Victor Lewis, Max Roach, Chick Webb, and Tony Williams.[1]
Reedus died of a pulmonary embolism at John F. Kennedy International Airport at the age of 49. He had just returned from a tour in Italy with pianist Mike LeDonne.[2]
Discography
As leader
- The Far Side (Jazz City, 1988)[3]
- Incognito (Enja, 1989)
- Minor Thang (Criss Cross, 1996)
- People Get Ready (Sweet Basil, 1998)
As sideman
With Joanne Brackeen
- Power Talk (Turnipseed, 1994)
With Robin Eubanks & Steve Turre
- Dedication (JMT, 1989)
With Kenny Garrett
- Introducing Kenny Garrett (Criss Cross, 1985)
- Garrett 5 (Paddle Wheel, 1989)
- African Exchange Student (Atlantic, 1990)
With Benny Golson
- Benny Golson Quartet Live (Dreyfus, 1989 [1991])
- Benny Golson Quartet (LRC Ltd., 1990)
- Domingo (Dreyfus, 1992)
- I Remember Miles (Alfa Jazz, 1993)
With Benny Green
- Prelude (Criss Cross, 1988)
With Geoff Keezer
- Waiting in the Wings (Sunnyside, 1989)
- With Our Own Eyes (Novus, 1993)
With Harold Mabern
- Mabern's Grooveyard (DIW, 1996)
- Maya with Love (DIW, 2000)
With Ronnie Mathews
- Selena's Dance (Timeless, 1988)
With Mulgrew Miller
- Wingspan (Landmark, 1987)
- Time and Again (Landmark, 1991)
With Dick Oatts
- Gratitude (SteepleChase, 2007)
With Woody Shaw
- United (Columbia, 1981)
- Lotus Flower (Enja, 1982)
- Master of the Art (Elektra Musicia, 1982)
- Night Music (Elektra Musicia, 1982)
- The Time Is Right (Red, 1983)
With Jim Snidero
With James Spaulding
- The Smile of the Snake (HighNote, 1997)
With Walt Weiskopf Quintet
- Anytown (Criss Cross, 1998)
With Anthony Wonsey
- Blues for Hiroshi (Sharp Nine, 2004)