Booker Ervin

About

Tenor saxophonist worked with Charles Mingus from the mid-1950s to the early 1960s.

Before Fame

He was serving in the Air Force when he borrowed a saxophone from the Service Club and began to teach himself to play.

Trivia

He combined his talent with strong dedication, saving up money to study for a year at the Schillinger House, which was later renamed the Berklee School of Music.

Family Life

He grew up in Denison, Texas and died of kidney disease in New York City.

Associated With

Cleanhead Vinson was another popular blues saxophonist.