Paul Gonsalves

Saxophonist

Birthday July 12, 1920

Birth Sign Cancer

Birthplace Massachusetts

DEATH DATE May 15, 1974 (53)

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About

Jazz tenor saxophonist who helped revitalize Duke Ellington's sluggish career in the 1950s. He played the Newport Jazz Festival to great acclaim.

Before Fame

He started playing with the Sabby Lewis Orchestra at a young age after being encourage to perform folk songs by his family.

Trivia

Gonsalves, Ellington, and trombonist Tyree Glenn were placed side-by-side in the same New York funeral home after they all passed away.

Family Life

He was raised by Cape Verdean parents outside of Boston.

Associated With

He performed with in Count Basie's big band from 1947 to 1949.