Every Night's A Saturday Night The Bobby Keys Story
Every Night's A Saturday Night is a biography written by legendary saxophonist Bobby Keys. The book chronicles Keys' life and career in the music industry, from his early days as a session musician to his work with some of the biggest names in rock and roll history. This article will explore the highlights of Bobby Keys' life and career, as well as the impact he had on the world of music.
Early Life and Career
Bobby Keys was born on December 18th, 1943 in Slaton, Texas. He grew up in a musical family and started playing the saxophone at a young age. By the time he was a teenager, Keys was already a seasoned performer, playing with local bands in and around Lubbock, Texas.
In 1959, at the age of 16, Keys was recruited by Buddy Holly to play saxophone on his Winter Dance Party tour. This was a pivotal moment in Keys' career, as it allowed him to break into the music industry and make connections with other musicians.
After the Winter Dance Party tour, Keys continued to work as a session musician, playing on recordings for artists such as Bobby Vee, The Crickets, and Roy Orbison. He also became a member of the touring band for Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, which included future members of Derek and the Dominos, Eric Clapton's band.
The Rolling Stones Years
In 1969, Bobby Keys received a call from The Rolling Stones' manager, inviting him to play saxophone on their upcoming album, Let It Bleed. This would be the start of a long and fruitful collaboration between Keys and The Rolling Stones.
Keys went on to play on every Rolling Stones album from 1970's Sticky Fingers to 1980's Emotional Rescue. He also toured extensively with the band, becoming a permanent member of their touring lineup in the mid-70s.
Keys' contributions to The Rolling Stones' music cannot be overstated. His saxophone solos on songs such as "Brown Sugar" and "Can't You Hear Me Knocking" are now iconic and have become an integral part of the band's sound.
Other Collaborations
Aside from his work with The Rolling Stones, Bobby Keys collaborated with many other artists throughout his career. He played on albums for artists such as George Harrison, John Lennon, and Ringo Starr, and toured with Joe Cocker, Eric Clapton, and many others.
One of Keys' most memorable collaborations was with the band Lynyrd Skynyrd. He played saxophone on their hit song "Sweet Home Alabama" and went on to tour with the band in the mid-70s.
Personal Life and Legacy
Bobby Keys was known for his larger-than-life personality and his love of partying. He was a close friend of Keith Richards and the two of them were known to indulge in drugs and alcohol together.
Keys passed away on December 2nd, 2014 at the age of 70. His legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world.
Conclusion
Every Night's A Saturday Night is a fascinating look into the life and career of one of the most iconic saxophonists in rock and roll history. Bobby Keys' contributions to The Rolling Stones' music alone would be enough to secure his place in music history, but his collaborations with other artists and his larger-than-life personality only add to his legacy.