Born: July 2, 1926, Pittsburg, KS
Died: October 18, 1994, Los Angeles, CA

Chuck Berry’s electric guitar, Earl Palmer’s propulsive drums and Lee Allen’s honking saxophone comprise the instrumental Holy Trinity of rock ‘n’ roll. Although not a Louisiana native, Allen’s session work with Little Richard, Fats Domino and Huey “Piano” Smith more than justifies his recognition as a “Master” of the state’s unique sounds.

You may not know who Lee Allen was, bu...