Noble "Thin Man" Watts

Instrumentalist, arranger, saxophonist and band leader Noble “Thin Man” Watts was born in DeLand, Florida on February 17, 1926. In his youth he studied violin and trumpet before switching to the saxophone. At Florida’s A&M College he played in the marching band with Cannonball Adderley. On leaving College he was in demand, playing in the bands of Lionel Hampton, Dinah Washington, The Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, and Chuck Berry, among others.

He is mentioned in the 2012 book “The One – The Life and Music of James Brown” as being a major influence on funk music and especially James Brown.

Mr. Watts died from pneumonia and emphysema in DeLand, Florida on August 24, 2004.

Image: Getty Images

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