Wayne Jackson.
Wayne Jackson, a member of the Memphis Horns and the Mar-Keys, passed away last night due to congestive heart failure. He was 74 years old. Jackson was an integral figure at Stax Records in the ’60s before leaving the studio and forming the Memphis Horns with Andrew Love.
The duo went on to play on hits for big name stars like Elvis Presley, and James Taylor (among MANY others), and won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 before Love passed away later that year.
Amy Jackson released the following statement yesterday on her husband’s Facebook page:
“Tonight I lost my husband and best friend to congestive heart failure. Wayne and I shared 25 magical and amazing years together. He was a beautiful soul who touched the world with his trumpet. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his incredible musical legacy, which he leaves us with.
God gave him a gift, and he used it to the fullest. As he said in his 2012 acceptance speech for the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, “It’s been a dance of love between me and that trumpet.” He loved his family, his friends and his fans the world over. Tonight raise a toast to a life well-lived.”
There are no memorial service details at this time, but listen to the Mar-Keys classic below, and take a moment for what has been a tough two weeks for the greater Memphis music scene.
Remembering Wayne Jackson of the Memphis Horns
