Frank Morgan

Date of Birth: December 23, 1933

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: December 14, 2007

Biography

Frank Morgan, born Frank Vincent Morgan on December 23, 1933, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was an influential American jazz saxophonist. Known for his prowess on the alto saxophone, Morgan’s career spanned over five decades, during which he became renowned for his emotional depth and technical skill. He was often compared to Charlie Parker, his idol, and his work bridged the bebop era with modern jazz sensibilities. Morgan’s early life was deeply musical, influenced by his father, Stanley Morgan, who was a guitarist for the Ink Spots. Frank began playing clarinet and switched to alto saxophone as a teenager. His remarkable talent quickly became apparent, and by the age of 15, he was already performing with major jazz figures. Despite his musical genius, Morgan’s career was marred by personal struggles, including a significant battle with heroin addiction, which led to several incarcerations. However, Morgan made a triumphant return to the jazz scene in the 1980s, recording a series of critically acclaimed albums and performing at major jazz festivals around the world. Morgan continued to perform and record until his death on December 14, 2007, in Minneapolis. His legacy endures through his recordings, which continue to inspire jazz musicians and enthusiasts.

5 Interesting Facts about Frank Morgan

1. Frank Morgan’s debut album, “Frank Morgan,” was released in 1955 when he was just 22 years old.

2. He spent a significant portion of his life in and out of prison due to drug-related offenses but used his time in incarceration to practice and refine his musical skills.

3. Morgan’s comeback album, “Easy Living,” released in 1985, marked his return to the jazz scene and was highly praised by critics.

4. He was a frequent performer at the Village Vanguard in New York City, one of the most prestigious jazz clubs in the world.

5. Frank Morgan’s life and career were the subject of the 2007 documentary film “Sound of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank Morgan

1. “Music is the only thing that can bring people together.”

2. “Jazz is my life, it’s my passion. It’s what I live for.”

3. “You can’t play what you don’t feel. If you don’t live it, it won’t come out of your horn.”

4. “I believe that every note I play is a gift, and I want to share that gift with the world.”

5. “Despite all the hardships, music has always been my redemption.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Frank Morgan’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million at the peak of his career, primarily from album sales and live performances.

Children

Frank Morgan had one daughter, Angela Morgan, who has kept a relatively low profile but has occasionally spoken about her father’s legacy and his impact on jazz music.