On this 9th day of August in the late 1920s, the legendary and influential Soul, R&B and Gospel saxophonist, songwriter, arranger and producer Gene Big Daddy G Barge was born in Norfolk, VA. Big Daddy G was one of the first Soul saxophonists. After injuring himself playing high school football, Barge took up the clarinet in his high school band. after a stint in the Air Force towards the end of WW2, Barge studied music at West Virginia State College. He then based himself in Norfolk, VA and began making his mark on the fledgling R&B scene. He toured with The Turbans and Ray Charles.He then joined Chuck Willis and is the sax player on Willis` big hit, C.C. Rider. Meanwhile, Barge had a few minor instrumental hits of his own. One of these, A Night With Daddy G, on Legrande Records, was heard by labelmate Gary U.S. Bonds, and Bonds asked permission from Barge to put lyrics to the song. The resulting record Quarter To Three, was a #1 gold selling hit. Barge and Bonds then collaborated on a number of hits in the early 60s. All te while, Barge was an English teacher and band instructor at Suffolk (VA) High School. In 1964, Barge was hired by Chess Records as producer, arranger, contractor and, of course, saxophonist. He worked with Little Milton, Billy Stewart, The Dells, Fontella Bass, Koko Taylor, Muddy Waters, and The Radiants. Barge also worked with Chess` Gospel artists, including The Soul Stirrers, Ruth Davis and others. In 1971, Barge moved to Stax Records. After Stax closed down, Barge concentrated on Gospel music untill he hooked up with Natilie Cole. He then began an acting career, appearing in Stony Island and Code Of Silence with Chuck Norris, Above The Law and Under Siege with Steven Segal, The Package with Gene Hackman and The Fugitive with Harrison Ford. In 1982, Barge joined The Rolling Stones for a European tour. Barge produced 3 albums for Big Twist and The Mellow Fellows on Alligator Records. The Mellow Fellows are now The Chicago Rhythm and Blues Kings, and Barge is leader and saxophonist for the group. He is also general manager for Lafayette Gatling`s gospel label, Thisit Records. Check out this R&B legend on Dance With Daddy G on See For Miles Records.
Posted on: Sat, 09 Aug 2014 13:49:37 +0000
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