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Jackie Brenston



Singer and saxophonist Jackie Brenston was born in Clarkesdale, Mississippi on 24 August in either 1928 or 1930 and became a member of Ike Turner’s Kings of Rhythm band. The famous recording from 1951 of “Rocket 88” is actually of Ike Turner’s Kings of Rhythm featuring Brenston on vocals (commentary?) and saxophone. He had a troubled youth and often ran away from home. He served in the US Army for two years. On return he learned the saxophone and was recruited by Ike Turner for the band.

Unfortunately he was unable to retain the success, gave up music and became a truck driver, and also suffered from alcoholism. Mr Brenston died of a heart attack in Memphis on December 15, 1979.

Image: Restored by Google


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