Date of Birth: December 23, 1933
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Date of Death: December 14, 2007
Biography
Frank Morgan, born Francis Philip Wuppermann on December 23, 1933, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was a celebrated jazz saxophonist whose career spanned over five decades. Morgan is best known for his work in the bebop genre, following in the footsteps of his idol, Charlie Parker. He began playing the saxophone at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his prodigious talent. Despite facing numerous personal challenges, including struggles with addiction and periods of incarceration, Morgan’s virtuosic playing and emotional depth left an indelible mark on the jazz world. Frank Morgan’s early career was marked by rapid success. He recorded his first album, “Frank Morgan,” in 1955, which established him as a rising star in the jazz community. However, his career was soon derailed by his addiction to heroin, which led to several prison sentences. During his time in San Quentin State Prison, Morgan continued to play and even formed a band with other incarcerated musicians. After his release, Morgan staged a remarkable comeback in the 1980s, releasing a series of critically acclaimed albums and performing at major jazz festivals around the world. His later work demonstrated a maturity and emotional depth that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Morgan’s life story, marked by redemption and resilience, was the subject of the 2007 documentary “Sound of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story.” Frank Morgan passed away on December 14, 2007, in Minneapolis, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most expressive and resilient voices in jazz.
5 Interesting Facts about Frank Morgan
1. Frank Morgan was mentored by the legendary Charlie Parker, who greatly influenced his playing style.
2. Morgan spent nearly 30 years battling heroin addiction, which led to multiple incarcerations.
3. He made a remarkable comeback in the 1980s, becoming a prominent figure in the jazz revival of that era.
4. Morgan was the subject of the documentary “Sound of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story,” which highlights his life and career.
5. Despite his struggles, Morgan’s discography includes over a dozen critically acclaimed albums.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank Morgan
1. “Music is my life, and it has saved me more times than I can count.”
2. “Jazz is not just a genre; it’s a way of life and a way of expressing the deepest parts of my soul.”
3. “The saxophone is my voice, and through it, I tell my story.”
4. “Every note I play is a testament to my journey, my struggles, and my triumphs.”
5. “The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s never too late to turn your life around.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Frank Morgan’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $1 million at the peak of his career.
Children
Frank Morgan did not have any children.
Relevant Links
2. [Sound of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story – IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3300970/
3. [Frank Morgan Discography – Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/252603-Frank-Morgan
