Floyd Newman facts for kids

Floyd Newman (born August 17, 1931 – died May 23, 2023) was an American musician. He was a talented saxophonist, especially known for playing the baritone saxophone. Floyd was also a session musician, meaning he played on recordings for many different artists. He was also a bandleader, which means he led his own music group.

Floyd Newman was famous for his work with Stax Records, a well-known record company. He was a key member of the The Mar-Keys’ horn section and later helped form The Memphis Horns.

Early Life and Music Career

Floyd Newman was born in Memphis, Tennessee. In the late 1940s, he joined the band of the legendary blues musician B.B. King. Other musicians in this band included George Coleman and George Joyner.

Later, Floyd moved to Detroit. There, he recorded music with Jackie Brenston. He also went on tour with the famous singer Sam Cooke. After his time in Detroit, Floyd returned to Memphis.

Leading His Own Band

In Memphis, Floyd Newman started his own band. This group included Howard Grimes on drums, Joe Woods on guitar, and Isaac Hayes on keyboards. They often performed at a place called the Plantation Inn.

This band also recorded a song called “Frog Stomp.” Floyd Newman and Isaac Hayes wrote this song together. Before this, Floyd and Isaac had also played together in Ben Branch’s band at the Tropicana Club. Isaac Hayes was a singer in that group.

The Memphis Horns

Floyd Newman became a very important part of the music scene at Stax Records. He was part of their house horn section. This means he and other horn players would play on many of the songs recorded at the studio.

In 1965, Floyd Newman helped create a famous group called The Memphis Horns. This group included:

• Wayne Jackson on trumpet
• Gene "Bowlegs" Miller on trumpet
• Floyd Newman on baritone saxophone
• Andrew Love on tenor saxophone

The Memphis Horns became well-known for their powerful and soulful sound. They played on many hit songs for various artists.

His Legacy

Floyd Newman passed away on May 23, 2023. He was 91 years old. He left behind a great musical legacy, having played on countless recordings and influenced many musicians.

Selected Recordings

Floyd Newman played on many records throughout his career.

As a leader

• 1963: "Frog Stomp" / "Sassy" (Stax)

As a sideman

A sideman is a musician who plays with a band or artist but is not a permanent member of the main group. Floyd Newman played on many famous albums for other artists, including:

• Otis Redding (like Pain in My Heart and Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul)
• B.B. King (Boss of the Blues)
• Wilson Pickett (like In the Midnight Hour and The Exciting Wilson Pickett)
• Etta James (Tell Mama)
• Aretha Franklin (like Aretha Now and Hey Now Hey (The Other Side of the Sky))
• Boz Scaggs (Boz Scaggs)
• Lulu (Melody Fair)
• Stephen Stills (Stephen Stills 2)