Fred Wesley

Born in Columbus, Georgia, and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Fred Wesley is best known as the trombonist and musical director for James Brown's band, the J.B.'s. His contributions to funk classics like "Say It Loud (I'm Black and I'm Proud)" and "Papa Don't Take No Mess" highlighted his skill in orchestrating innovative grooves. Wesley worked with legends such as Maceo Parker, Bootsy Collins, and George Clinton's Parliament-Funkadelic. He later focused on jazz, joining the Count Basie Orchestra, and worked with Earth, Wind & Fire. Wesley authored "Hit Me, Fred" and taught jazz studies.