It’s always heartbreaking to hear about the passing of a musical legend. Floyd Newman, the celebrated American saxophonist, took his last breaths on May 23, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of soulful tunes and unforgettable melodies. A member of popular groups like The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns, Newman made an indelible mark on the music industry and inspired generations of aspiring musicians. As we say goodbye to this iconic figure, let’s take a moment to reflect on his life, his impact on the world of music, and the incredible legacy he has left behind.
1. Floyd Newman, Stax Records sax great, dies at 91
Stax Records saxophonist Floyd Newman passed away on May 23, 2023, at the age of 91. Newman was a beloved musician and a prominent member of The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns. He will be deeply missed by countless fans and fellow musicians throughout the industry.
Newman’s musical career spanned over six decades, during which he made significant contributions to the soul, R&B and blues genres. He was known for his unique sound and soulful style, which earned him recognition as one of the most influential saxophonists of his generation.
Throughout his career, Newman collaborated with many legendary artists, including Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, and Sam & Dave, to name a few. He was a fixture in the Memphis music scene, and his work helped to define the sound that would later be known as Memphis Soul.
Despite his immense talent and success, Newman remained humble and dedicated to his craft until the end. He continued to perform and record music throughout his life, leaving behind a legacy that will live on for generations to come.
News of Newman’s passing has deeply saddened his fans and many in the music industry. He will be remembered as a true legend and a pioneer of the soul and R&B genres. His contributions to music will never be forgotten, and his influence will continue to inspire musicians for years to come.
2. Newman’s expressive sonorous tone was a signature of early Stax/Satellite Records sound
American saxophonist Floyd Newman, who was known for his distinctive and expressive sonorous tone, passed away on May 23, 2023, at the age of 91. Throughout his career, Newman was a significant contributor to the early Stax/Satellite Records sound and was a member of two iconic groups – The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns.
Newman’s sound was instrumental in shaping the Stax/Satellite Records’ sound, which blended elements of gospel, R&B, and pop music. Through his music, Newman’s contributions came to signify the soulful sound of Memphis, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest saxophonists of his time.
Newman’s achievements went beyond his work with his groups. He was also well-known for his sessions with music legends such as Otis Redding, Sam and Dave, and Isaac Hayes. Newman’s saxophone playing can be heard on some of their most memorable hits, adding his trademark sound and emotion to the music.
Newman’s passing is a significant loss to the music world, and he will be remembered as a masterful musician who shaped the sound of an era. Fans and music lovers around the world mourn his passing, and his legacy will endure through the music he created and contributed to.
Floyd Newman’s legacy will always be revered in the history of music, and his loss will be felt for years to come. His contribution to the early Stax/Satellite Records sound represents a significant chapter in music history, and his expressive and soulful saxophone playing continues to inspire musicians today.
3. One of the label’s first successes was the instrumental Last Night by the Mar-Keys
Floyd Newman, a well-reputed American saxophonist, passed away on May 23, 2023, at the age of 91. Newman contributed significantly to the music industry and has left an indelible legacy behind. He was best known for his work with The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns. Newman’s death has left the industry and his fans in mourning.
Newman’s musical career spanned over several decades, during which he collaborated with several renowned artists and bands. The Mar-Keys, a band he co-founded, saw considerable success with their instrumental track Last Night. The track peaked at number three on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1961 and has since been recognized as a classic.
Apart from The Mar-Keys, Newman was famous for his contributions to The Memphis Horns. The Memphis Horns was an instrumental soul and R&B duo that was active from the early 1970s until the 2010s. The duo consisted of Newman and Wayne Jackson, and together, they recorded and performed with several prominent musicians.
Newman’s saxophone skills were exceptional, and his mastery over the instrument was evident in his performances. He was a talented musician who inspired generations of saxophonists. His contribution to music will be remembered for years to come.
Newman’s death has left the music industry in grief. His fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to the late musician. The news of Newman’s death has come as a shock to many, and his absence will be felt deeply. Nevertheless, Newman’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and his music will live on.
4. Newman worked with giants of American music such as B.B. King, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, and more
American Saxophonist Floyd Newman, who was a member of the Mar-Keys and the Memphis Horns, passed away on May 23, 2023, at the age of 91. Newman was renowned for his soulful saxophone playing and worked with some of the biggest names in American music.
Throughout his long and successful career, Newman collaborated with music icons like B.B. King, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, and many others. He became particularly known for his work with the Memphis Horns, a horn section that can be heard on countless classic soul and R&B albums.
Newman’s contributions to music earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of the great horn players of his generation. He was adept at playing various styles of music and could evoke a range of emotions with his saxophone. Many of his performances were characterized by his signature sound, which had a distinct soulful quality.
Fans of Newman will miss his unique musical voice, which helped to shape the sound of soul and R&B in the 20th century. His ability to bring emotion and depth to his playing will be remembered as a shining example of the transformative power of music. While Newman may be gone, his legacy will continue to inspire and influence musicians around the world for years to come.
5. Even in his 80s, Newman remained a musical force, performing and recording with Memphis R&B revivalists The Bo-Keys
Floyd Newman, the renowned American saxophonist, passed away on May 23, 2023, at the age of 91. Newman, who was a member of the popular bands The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns, had an illustrious career that spanned over five decades. Despite his old age, he continued to be a musical force, performing and recording with Memphis R&B revivalists, The Bo-Keys.
Newman’s love for music began when he was just a young boy. He started playing the saxophone at the age of 14 and quickly developed a passion for it. His talent did not go unnoticed, and he was soon playing with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Throughout his career, Newman remained true to his love for R&B music, and his unique style and sound set him apart from other musicians.
Even in his 80s, Newman was still going strong. He continued to perform and record with The Bo-Keys, inspiring a new generation of musicians with his talent and dedication. His contribution to the music industry will be remembered for years to come, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest saxophonists of all time.
The news of Newman’s passing came as a shock to his fans and colleagues alike. He was loved and respected by all who knew him, and his music had touched the lives of many. The music industry has lost a true legend, but his legacy will live on through the countless musicians he inspired and the fans who will continue to enjoy his music for many years to come.
As the music world mourns the loss of Floyd Newman, it is important to remember the impact he had on the industry. His dedication to his craft and his love for music will continue to inspire generations to come. Although he may be gone, his music will live on forever, and his memory will always be cherished by those who knew him and loved his music.
6. Newman had musical parents and played piano all through school before switching to saxophone full time
Floyd Newman, the renowned American saxophonist, passed away on May 23, 2023 at the age of 91. Newman was born to musical parents and had an early inclination towards music. He started playing piano from a young age and continued to do so throughout his school years. However, it was the saxophone that captured his heart, and he eventually dedicated himself to playing it full time.
Newman’s talent was undeniable, and he quickly made a name for himself in the music industry. He was a member of the iconic band, The Mar-Keys, as well as the legendary Memphis Horns. His saxophone playing graced countless songs, and his contributions to the music industry earned him much-deserved recognition.
Throughout his distinguished career, Newman proved himself to be a master of his craft, captivating audiences with his smooth and soulful saxophone playing. He was highly respected in the music industry, and his legacy will continue to live on through his recordings and collaborations with various artists.
Despite his immense talent, Newman remained humble and focused on his craft throughout his career. His passing is a great loss to the music community, and his fans mourn the loss of a true legend. Newman will always be remembered for his contributions to the music industry and his passion for the saxophone. His music will continue to inspire generations to come.
7. Newman studied to be a dentist but couldn’t pass chemistry and other demanding courses due to his musical gigs
A legendary saxophonist, Floyd Newman, has passed away at the age of 91. While Newman was known for his musical talent, few knew that he once aspired to be a dentist. However, his love for music kept him from achieving his dream of becoming a dentist. Newman couldn’t pass chemistry and other demanding courses due to his busy schedule.
Newman became a pioneer in music, receiving his start as a member of The Mar-Keys. He later joined The Memphis Horns, which he played for over 30 years. During his career, Newman worked with the likes of Otis Redding and Aretha Franklin. He also played on the track “Soul Man” by Sam & Dave, which has now become a classic in American music.
In the music industry, Newman was well-known for his unique sound on the saxophone. He was a masterful musician and his music will be remembered for years to come. Newman’s life and legacy will live on through his music, which was a reflection of his passion for his craft.
The passing of Floyd Newman has left a void in the music industry, as well as in the hearts of his fans. He will always be remembered as one of the greats and his music will continue to inspire generations to come. Newman’s story is a testament to following your passion, even if it keeps you from achieving what others might consider a “safe” career. His legacy will continue to inspire others to chase their dreams no matter what obstacles they may face along the way.
8. Newman was drafted into the Army where he honed his musical chops alongside great players from all over the country
American saxophonist Floyd Newman, well known for his work with The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns, passed away on May 23, 2023, at the age of 91. Newman’s career spanned over six decades and he was revered for his unique sound and style.
Born in 1932 in Mississippi, Floyd Newman moved to Memphis in the late 1940s, where he started playing saxophone in clubs and on recordings. However, his career was put on hold when he was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. It was during this time that he honed his skills by playing alongside other talented musicians.
After his military service, Newman returned to Memphis and quickly established himself as a sought-after session musician. He soon joined The Mar-Keys, a group of young musicians who became famous for their hit “Last Night” in 1961. Newman continued to work with The Mar-Keys and their successors, The Memphis Horns, throughout the 1960s and 70s.
Newman played on countless recordings, including those of Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and Aretha Franklin. His signature sound, often described as “gritty” and “soulful,” was recognizable from the very first note. His contributions to the music industry were significant, and his legacy will not be forgotten.
Floyd Newman was a talented, dedicated musician who made an impact on the industry. His passing is mourned by his friends, family, and fans around the world. The world has lost a true musical icon, but his music will live on forever.
9. Newman brought in young pianist/organist Booker T. Jones into the Stax fold
American saxophonist Floyd Newman, known for his work with The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns, died on May 23, 2023, at the age of 91. Newman was a prominent figure in the Memphis music scene and played on over 400 recordings throughout his career. He was a pioneer of the soul genre and helped to define the Stax sound in the 1960s.
In addition to his own musical contributions, Newman brought Booker T. Jones into the Stax fold. Jones was a young pianist and organist at the time, and his work with Newman helped to establish him as a leading figure in the soul and R&B scenes. Newman’s mentorship of Jones helped to shape the sound of countless artists who followed in their footsteps.
The loss of Newman is a significant one for music lovers and musicians alike. He was a trailblazer in his own right and helped to shape the course of American music over the course of his long and illustrious career. Though he may be gone, his legacy lives on in the countless musicians he inspired and the countless recordings he played on during his lifetime.
Newman’s passing serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of human life and the importance of celebrating the contributions of those who have passed before us. His music will continue to inspire and uplift people for generations to come, and his impact on the world of music will not soon be forgotten. Our condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
10. Newman’s contributions and role as a talent connector were crucial for Stax Records.
Music industry mourns the loss of saxophonist Floyd Newman at the age of 91. Newman, known for his role in The Mar-Keys and The Memphis Horns, passed away on May 23, 2023. As a prominent figure in the music scene, Newman’s contributions and role as a talent connector were crucial for Stax Records.
Throughout his career, Newman’s soulful sound could be heard on countless recordings with artists such as Otis Redding, Sam & Dave, and Wilson Pickett. His talent on the saxophone was undeniable, but it was his ability to connect with other musicians that set him apart. Newman played a significant role in bringing talented artists together and helped shape the sound of Stax Records during its heyday.
Newman’s legacy will live on through his music and the countless individuals he influenced throughout his career. His passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to the music industry will not be forgotten. Today, the music community honors Newman’s life and mourns the loss of a true legend. Rest in peace, Floyd Newman.
