Phineas Newborn Jr.

About

Jazz artist who was involved in the early days of rock 'n' roll. His career suffered from numerous personal and physical problems.

Before Fame

He went on the road with Jackie Brenston as part of his Delta Cats to support Rocket 88, the first rock 'n' roll record in history.

Trivia

He was financially imperiled for much of his later career, and upon his death in 1989, the Jazz Foundation of America was established to assist retired jazz greats with their medical bills and financial struggles.

Family Life

He was born into a musical family: his father, Phineas Newborn Sr., was a blues musician, while Calvin, his younger brother, became a jazz guitarist.

Associated With

His father's R&B band also served as B.B. King's band when King began his recording career in 1949.