Dick Heckstall‐Smith

Born: September 26, 1934, in Ludlow, Shropshire, England. Died: December 17, 2004 in Hampstead, London, England. English saxophonist and composer who played a major role in bringing British Blues and Jazz to the forefront of the world music scene. He was part of one of music's most important, yet unfortunately over-looked, bands of the 1960s, The Graham Bond Organisation, which also included Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker. Dick also had a long career in other legendary bands such as Alexis Korner’s Blues Incorporated, John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers, Colosseum, Mainsqueeze, as well as many solo projects. As a performer, Dick was one of the finest showmen of the era, able to play two horns at once and keep the audience glued to him at all times. He had an amazing charisma both on stage and off. Eagle Rock Entertainment/Blue Storm Music released Blues and Beyond in 2001, which was nominated for a WC Handy Award.