The Louis Satchmo Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp is proud to announce the addition of legendary trombonist Fred Wesley as this year’s Artist-In-Residence. The announcement was made at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 8, at the Loyola University Music Complex, where the camp is being held.

Wesley, a renowned figure in the world of jazz and funk, is best known for his work with James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul,” and the iconic band Parliament-Funkadelic. His contributions to music over the past several decades have earned him a revered place in the pantheon of great jazz musicians.

His musical journey began as a teenage trombonist with Ike and Tina Turner. His career took a significant leap when he joined James Brown’s band in 1968. Wesley served as music director, arranger, trombonist and a primary composer for Brown until 1975. His precise solos and orchestrations of sinuous grooves became defining elements of Brown’s sound, earning Wesley the title of “the world’s most famous sideman.”

After his tenure with James Brown, Wesley joined forces with George Clinton and Bootsy Collins, contributing to Parliament-Funkadelic and Bootsy’s Rubber Band. Wesley’s work during this period helped elevate funk to new heights. He has recorded a dozen solo albums, including the cult favorite “House Party” and his latest, “From The Blues and Back,” set for release in early 2024. Wesley’s influence and contributions are highlighted in the Oscar-winning documentary “When We Were Kings” and numerous other documentaries and books about funk.

A veteran of the Count Basie Orchestra, Wesley has collaborated with a wide array of artists, from Ray Charles to Trombone Shorty.

Wesley continues to set the standard in the world of funk and jazz and remains at the forefront of the genre he helped pioneer.

The Louis Satchmo Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp, named in honor of the legendary Louis Armstrong, has a long-standing tradition of nurturing young talent and preserving the rich heritage of jazz. The camp provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes instrumental and vocal instruction, music theory and history, ensuring a well-rounded education for its participants.

The camp’s affiliation with Loyola University provides students with access to top-notch facilities and resources, further enhancing their learning experience. This year’s program promises to be exceptional with the inclusion of Wesley.

For more information on the Louis Satchmo Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp and Fred Wesley’s residency, please visit the camp’s official website here.

Fred Wesley