This episode of The Trombone Corner, featuring trombonist, band leader and recording artist Fred Wesley, is brought to you by Bob Reeves Brass and The Brass Ark.
The Trombone Corner is now on video! You can watch this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"Fred Wesley: Trombone Funk and a Legendary Career"
And, find the expanded show notes, transcript and more photos here
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He's one of the trailblazers of funk, the man who helped define the sound of James Brown, Parliament and Funkadelic, working with Maceo Parker and Bootsy Collins, amongst so many more.
But he didn't set out to be known as "Funky Fred." In fact, the funk came to him very much by accident. Jazz was his first love: JJ Johnson, Kai Winding, Carl Fontana, Miles Davis - Fred knew every note Kind of Blue.
Fred Wesley joins Noah and John to talk about his path from a musically rich childhood in Mobile, Alabama to becoming one of the defining trombone voices in funk and jazz. We learn about the early gigs that shaped him, the demands of touring with Ike & Tina Turner, James Brown and George Clinton, and how he later returned to jazz and big band work.
Along the way, Fred learned tons of practical advice that he shares with younger players: learn your instrument, learn the business, and show up prepared.
Fred continues to record and tour, including shows this fall in Europe and Australia, and he shares the recent work with his Fred Wesley Generations Trio featuring Leonardo Corradi and Tony Match. Truly an inspiration to generations of musicians, and a man who put the trombone on the map!
About Fred Wesley:
Fred Wesley is one of the defining voices of funk trombone. As a key member, arranger and musical director for James Brown and the JBs, his playing helped shape some of the most important records in funk history. Fred later joined George Clinton's Parliament Funkadelic, and also brought his sound into jazz with the Count Basie Orchestra.
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Fred has performed and recorded with artists including Ray Charles, Maceo Parker, Bootsy Collins, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Van Morrison. He has also continued exploring jazz through projects like the Generations Trio, alongside Leonardo Corradi and Tony Match.
Today, Fred continues to perform, record, and tour, carrying forward one of the most influential trombone voices in modern music.
Episode Links:
Bob Reeves Brass Events and Appearances:
- Virtuosity Music, October 9-10, Boston, MA
Signup link - NCMEA Conference, November 8-9, Winston-Salem, NC
- Greg Black Mouthpieces, November 10, Mount Holly, NC
Podcast Credits:
