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ALVIN RED TYLER

Biography

Alvin 'Red' Tyler (born December 5, 1925, in New Orleans, Louisiana; died April 3, 1998) was a pivotal saxophonist, arranger, bandleader, and producer whose work helped define the sound of New Orleans rhythm and blues and early rock 'n' roll. Raised in the 9th Ward, Tyler's early musical exposure came from attending local dances and absorbing the vibrant sounds of his city, but he did not begin playing music until after serving in the Navy during World War II. Using the G.I. Bill, he studied at the Grunewald School of Music, starting his professional career as an adult—a rare path among his peers.[1][6][4]

Tyler's career took off in 1949 when he joined Dave Bartholomew's orchestra, soon becoming a core member of the legendary J&M Studio Band at Cosimo Matassa’s studio. His baritone and tenor saxophone work can be heard on countless hits by Fats Domino, Little Richard, Lloyd Price, and many others, making him a key architect of the New Orleans R&B sound. Tyler was not only a session player but often served as de facto arranger and producer, crafting the signature 'head' arrangements that defined the era's music. In the 1960s, he co-founded the AFO (All For One) Records, the first African-American musician-owned label, and later became part owner of Parlo Records, which released Aaron Neville’s classic 'Tell It Like It Is.'[1][2][5][6]

Though Tyler was deeply involved in R&B for much of his career, jazz remained his true passion. In his later years, he focused on jazz performance and recording, releasing acclaimed albums such as 'Graciously' and 'Heritage.' He collaborated with a new generation of New Orleans musicians and was honored by the City of New Orleans with 'Alvin Red Tyler Day' in 1997, recognizing his immense contributions to the city’s musical legacy.[1][3][7]

Fun Facts

  • Tyler was a founding member and business leader of AFO Records, the first African-American musician-owned label in New Orleans.
  • He was often the uncredited arranger and producer for many of the era's biggest R&B and rock 'n' roll hits.
  • Tyler took a break from full-time music in the 1970s to work as a liquor distributor, allowing him to be more selective with his gigs.
  • The City of New Orleans honored him with 'Alvin Red Tyler Day' on July 9, 1997, in recognition of his musical legacy.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

  • Clyde Kerr Sr. - Tyler studied under Clyde Kerr Sr. at the Grunewald School of Music after WWII, which helped launch his professional career. (Music education, foundational training) [late 1940s]

Key Collaborators

  • Dave Bartholomew - Band leader and producer; Tyler joined his orchestra and became a core member of the J&M Studio Band. (J&M Studio Band sessions, Imperial Records hits) [1949–1960s]
  • Fats Domino - Session musician; Tyler played saxophone on many of Domino's hits. (Multiple Imperial Records singles) [1950s–1960s]
  • Little Richard - Session musician; played on seminal rock and roll recordings. (Hits recorded at J&M Studio) [1950s]
  • Harold Battiste - Co-founder of AFO Records and frequent collaborator in jazz and R&B projects. (AFO Executives, AFO Records projects) [1960s]
  • Germaine Bazzle - Jazz vocalist; Tyler led bands that backed her in New Orleans clubs. (Live performances, local jazz scene) [1970s–1990s]
  • Dr. John (Mac Rebennack) - Session work and touring; Tyler played on Dr. John's recordings and tours. (Studio sessions, tours) [1970s–1990s]

Artists Influenced

  • James Singleton - Bass player in Tyler's later jazz groups; Tyler's leadership and style influenced Singleton's approach. (Recordings and live performances with Tyler) [1980s–1990s]
  • Clyde Kerr Jr. - Trumpeter and son of Tyler's mentor; played in Tyler's bands and was shaped by his arrangements. (Jazz performances, 'Graciously' album) [1980s]

Connection Network

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Discography

Top Tracks

  1. Happy Sax (The Ace Records Rock N 'Roll Story)
  2. Snake Eyes (Ace Story (Vol. 3))

References

  1. musicrising.tulane.edu
  2. homeofthegroove.blogspot.com
  3. jazzforasaturdaynight.com
  4. veritenews.org
  5. allmusic.com

Heard on WWOZ

ALVIN RED TYLER has been played 3 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.

DateTimeTitleShowSpotify
Nov 25, 202512:20Snake EyesNew Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams
Oct 23, 202517:00Count 'emfrom GraciouslyJazz from Jax Breweryw/ Keith Hill
Oct 21, 202512:42Snake EyesNew Orleans Music Showw/ Cole Williams