Hank Mobley was an American jazz tenor saxophonist, known for his warm, lyrical tone and impeccable technique. Born on July 7, 1930, in Eastman, Georgia, Mobley grew into one of the most underrated musicians of the hard bop era. He emerged in the 1950s and gained prominence through his work with the legendary drummer Art Blakey’s band, The Jazz Messengers, which served as a training ground for many future jazz stars.

Mobley's career as a leader flourished in the 1960s, when he recorded a remarkable series of albums for the Blue Note label. His style, characterized by a smooth, soulful approach, earned him the nickname the "middleweight champion of the tenor saxophone," reflecting both his tone and his oft-overlooked status among the heavyweights of jazz. Classic albums such as "Soul Station," "Workout," and "No Room for Squares" showcase his creative prowess. Despite health problems that affected his playing later on, Mobley remained an influential figure until his death on May 30, 1986. His legacy lives on through a discography that remains a treasure trove for lovers of jazz, providing a masterclass in the soulful possibilities of the tenor saxophone.

Genres

Bebop

Hard Bop

Jazz

Jazz Saxophone

Related Artists

Lee Morgan

Freddie Hubbard

Donald Byrd

Wayne Shorter

Dexter Gordon

Art Blakey

John Coltrane

Jackie McLean

Sonny Rollins

Horace Silver

Grant Green

Miles Davis

Latest Release

Hank Mobley Quintet (Remastered)

Hank Mobley

Album - 8 Tracks - Released January 1, 2008