Wayne Jackson of the iconic Memphis Horns has died at the age of 74.
The trumpeter is reported to have passed away at a hospital in Memphis after suffering heart failure.
Together with late saxophonist Andrew Love and earlier collaborators, he appeared on dozens of classic recordings by Stax Records, and amassed more than 50 No.1 hits through his career.
The Horns won a lifetime achievement Grammy in 2012 for their work with Elvis Presley, Sam And Dave, Otis Reeding, Neil Diamond, Isaac Hayes, Stephen Stills and many others.
In later years they recorded with Sting, Peter Gabriel, Joe Cocker, Rod Stewart, Jack White, U2 and more, and appeared on five albums by the Robert Cray Band.
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Jackson appeared with Love and others on nine Memphis Horns albums starting with their self-titled debut in 1970 and ending with 1996’s Wishing You A Merry Christmas.
Jackson’s wife Amy said via Facebook: “Wayne and I shared 25 magical and amazing years together.
“He was a beautiful soul who touched the world with his trumpet. As we mourn his passing we also celebrate his incredible musical legacy.
“God gave him a gift and he used it to the fullest.”
Love died in 2012.