Dick Oatts is an influential figure in the world of jazz music, renowned for his expressive and skillful saxophone playing. Born on April 2, 1953, in Des Moines, Iowa, Oatts was introduced to jazz and the saxophone at a young age through his father, Jack Oatts, a respected jazz educator and saxophonist. He honed his craft at Drake University before moving to New York City in the mid-1970s, where he quickly became a sought-after performer in the vibrant jazz scene.

Throughout his illustrious career, Oatts has performed and recorded with a veritable who's who of jazz musicians, including luminaries such as Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra (now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra), Bob Brookmeyer, Red Rodney, Joe Henderson, and many others. Oatts' discography as a leader showcases his versatility and creativity, with notable albums such as "Master St." and "Master Street" revealing his deep understanding of jazz traditions, while projects like "Use Your Imagination" and the heartfelt "Luck Be a Lady: A Tribute to Frank" demonstrate his ability to reinterpret and innovate within the genre. His contributions to the "Jam Session" series volumes 3, 13, and 18, underscore his talent for collaboration and improvisation. With "Two Hearts" and "The Clouds Above," Oatts continues to explore the depth and richness of the saxophone's voice, cementing his status as a true master of his instrument and a cherished figure in the jazz community.

Genres

Contemporary Post-bop

Straight-ahead Jazz

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Latest Release

Forward!

Dick Oatts

Album - 9 Tracks - Released September 6, 2024