Dick Heckstall-Smith Dies at the Age of 70

01/15/2005 09:59AM

New York City, New York, USA - Eagle Rock Entertainment mourns the loss of legendary British saxophonist Dick Heckstall-Smith, who died at the age of 70 on Friday December 17th, 2004 after a battle with cancer.

Dick Heckstall-Smith, a legendary saxophonist and composer, played a major role in bringing British Blues and Jazz to the forefront of the world music scene. He was part of one of the important, yet unfortunately over-looked bands, such as the Graham Bond Organization, which also included upstarts Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker . Dick had a long career being part of other legendary bands such as Blues Incorporated, John Mayallıs Bluesbreakers, Coliseum, Mainsqueeze and many other solo projects.

As a performer, Dick was one of the finest showmen of the era, able to play two horns at once and keeping the audience glued to him at all times. He had an amazing charisma both on stage and off.

Eagle Rock Entertainment/BlueStorm Music released Dick Heckstall Smith and Friends, Blues and Beyond CD in 2001, which was nominated for a WC Handy Award. Guest musicians on this recording included Jack Bruce, Mick Taylor, Jon Hiseman, Clem Clemson Paul Jones, Peter Green and John Mayall.

The entire Eagle Rock Entertainment family is saddened by the loss of this great artist and wishes to extend its condolences to the family and friends of Dick Heckstall-Smith.

World Music Central
http://www.worldmusiccentral.org/article.php/20050115095944153