Big Jay McNeely

Big Jay McNeely was there when the energy and emotion of rhythm and blues helped give birth to rock and roll. His unmistakable “honking” tenor saxophone style brought a raw, bold sound to R&B and jump blues, helping shape musical trends that would follow. In 1949, his instrumental “The Deacon’s Hop” reached No. 1 on the R&B chart and became one of his signature recordings. Like many pioneering African American artists of his era, Jay did not always receive the recognition or financial rewards his contributions deserved. Fortunately, in later years, greater attention was given to his important place in music history. Through it all, Jay kept gigging. His exuberant stage presence and powerful saxophone remained hallmarks of his performances, and he continued entertaining audiences well into his later years, performing past the age of 90. Big Jay McNeely was, without question, a pioneering figure whose sound and showmanship helped forge the path from rhythm and blues to rock and roll.