Emanuel Sayles facts for kids

Emanuel Sayles (born January 31, 1907 – died October 5, 1986) was an American jazz musician. He was famous for playing the banjo, especially in the lively style of New Orleans jazz.

A Life in Jazz

Early Days and First Instruments

Emanuel Sayles was born in Donaldsonville, Louisiana. When he was a child, he learned to play the violin and viola. Later, he taught himself how to play the banjo and guitar. He grew up in a Catholic family.

Playing Music in New Orleans

After high school in Pensacola, Florida, Emanuel moved to New Orleans. This city is famous for its jazz music. He joined a band called William Ridgely's Tuxedo Orchestra. After that, he played with other famous musicians like Fate Marable and Armand J. Piron. He also played with Sidney Desvigne on riverboats. These boats traveled up and down the Mississippi River. In 1929, he helped make recordings with a group called the Jones-Collins Astoria Hot Eight.

Moving to Chicago and Back

In 1933, Sayles moved to Chicago. There, he led his own music group. He also played with many other blues and jazz artists, like Roosevelt Sykes. In 1949, he returned to New Orleans. He played with George Lewis, and they even toured Japan together in 1963 and 1964. He also played with Sweet Emma Barrett.

Later Years and Famous Bands

Emanuel Sayles continued to play music for many years. In 1960, he played with Punch Miller in Cleveland. From 1965 to 1967, he was part of the house band at the Jazz, Ltd. club in Chicago. He moved back to New Orleans in 1968. There, he became a member of the famous Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

His Recordings

Sayles recorded music with many other jazz legends. These included Peter Bocage, Kid Thomas Valentine, Earl Hines, and Louis Cottrell, Jr.. In the 1960s, he recorded many albums as a band leader. His music was released on labels like GHB, Nobility, Dixie, and Big Lou.

Emanuel Sayles passed away in 1986, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.