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Fred Wesley Venice Tour Dates & Concerts

Fred Wesley Venice Tickets

Lineup

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  Fred Wesley
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  Fred Wesley & the New JBs

Event information

As the longtime musical director for soul legend James Browns renowned backing unit the J.B.s, trombonist Fred Wesley was the worlds most famous sideman, orchestrating the sinuous grooves and contributing the bold, surgically precise solos that defined the language of funk. Born July 4, 1943, in Columbus, Georgia, Wesley was raised in Mobile, Alabama. At age three, he studied classical piano under his grandmother, a music teacher, but much preferred the big-band music played by his father, Fred Wesley, Sr., who also chaired the music department at Mobile Central High School. Wesley, Jr. remained with the piano until middle school, first adopting the trumpet before moving to the trombone. He made his professional debut at age 12 in a big band led by his schools music teacher, E.B. Coleman, and soon was sitting in with local Rs trumpeter Waymon Reed, who told him Brown was seeking a new trombonist, Wesley accepted the offer.

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About Fred Wesley

Fred Wesley is a highly acclaimed American musician, composer, and bandleader known for his exceptional contributions to the world of funk and jazz. With a career spanning over five decades, Wesley has established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Born on July 4, 1943, in Columbus, Georgia, Fred Wesley began his musical journey at an early age. He honed his skills as a trombonist and soon became recognized for his unique style and improvisational prowess. Wesley's distinctive sound and ability to blend various musical elements have made him a sought-after collaborator among renowned artists. Wesley's breakthrough came when he joined James Brown's band, The J.B.'s, in the late 1960s. As the band's musical director and trombonist, he played a pivotal role in shaping the iconic sound of funk music. Wesley's contributions can be heard on numerous James Brown hits, including "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine" and "Super Bad." Following his tenure with James Brown, Wesley embarked on a successful solo career, releasing several albums that showcased his versatility as a musician. His solo works, such as "A Blow for Me, A Toot for You" and "New Friends," received critical acclaim and further solidified his reputation as a musical innovator. In addition to his solo endeavors, Fred Wesley has collaborated with an array of notable artists, including George Clinton, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Bootsy Collins. His collaborations have resulted in groundbreaking albums that pushed the boundaries of funk and jazz, earning him widespread recognition and respect within the industry. Wesley's influence extends beyond his own music, as he has also made significant contributions to film soundtracks. He has worked alongside renowned composer David Newman, providing his signature trombone sound to movies like "Shaft" and "Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me." As a testament to his enduring legacy, Fred Wesley continues to perform and captivate audiences worldwide. His live performances are a testament to his mastery of the trombone and his ability to engage and entertain crowds with his infectious energy. Whether it's through his solo work, collaborations, or live performances, Fred Wesley's contributions to funk and jazz have left an indelible mark on the music industry. His innovative style, unmatched talent, and dedication to his craft have solidified his status as a true musical icon.