Grady Gaines was a blues saxophone player best known for playing in Little Richard’s (1932–2020) band.
- Died: January 29, 2021 (Who else died on January 29?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 86.
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Playing with the greats
Gaines was working as a session musician in 1955 when Little Richard asked him to join his backing band, the Upsetters. He became the band’s leader, touring extensively with Richard for the next few years as well as playing sax on recordings including “Keep a Knockin’,” “Ooh My Soul,” and “I’ll Never Let You Go.” Gaines had an iconic moment with Richard in the 1957 movie “Mister Rock and Roll” – he jumped atop Richard’s piano and played his sax there.
After Richard stepped away from secular music in 1958, the Upsetters continued on, backing other greats including Sam Cooke (1931–1964) and James Brown (1933–2006). In later years, Gaines toured with Curtis Mayfield (1942–1999) and formed a new band, the Texas Upsetters. He toured and recorded with the Texas Upsetters for years.
Gaines on touring with Little Richard in 1955
“To me, it was very exciting. My first time going all around, away from home and touring. So, it was exciting every step of the way.” —from an interview with Gary James for ClassicBands.com
Tributes to Grady Gaines
Full obituary: Houston Chronicle
