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 Mayall¹s 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.
Author: admin
