One of the greatest and most prolific rock ‘n roll saxophone players of the 1950s was tenor player Lee Allen. According to to John Laughter and Steve Marshall, Allen played with the most famous performers of day, including: “Fats Domino, Lloyd Price, Little Richard, Professor Longhair, Huey “Piano” Smith, Smiley Lewis, Shirley & Lee, Clarence “Frogman” Henry, Amos Milburn, Charles Brown, Etta James, and many more.” ¹
Although Allen literally played on hundreds of rock ‘n roll classics, perhaps his greatest legacy is the work he did with Little Richard. His tenor solos have inspired generations of players ever since.
Allen’s signature sound was grounded in his growl tone and note bending. This is exemplified perfectly in this recording of Little Richard’s Slippin’ and Slidin’.
Slippin’ and Slidin’ was released in 1956, and charted at #33.²
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