Legendary Saxophonist Gene "Daddy G" Barge Dies at 98

Pioneering saxophonist collaborated with legends like Muddy Waters and the Rolling Stones
By Newser.AI Read our AI policy
Posted Feb 5, 2025 4:45 AM CST
Legendary Saxophonist Gene 'Daddy G' Barge Dies at 98
Chicago Chess Records producer Gene Barge attends a screening of the film "Cadillac Records," about Chess, at AMC River East theater, Nov. 24, 2008, in Chicago.   (Keith Hale/Chicago Sun-Times via AP)

Gene "Daddy G" Barge, a saxophone player, songwriter, and producer, has passed away at the age of 98. His daughter, Gina Barge, confirmed he died in his sleep at his Chicago home. Barge's career stretched from the post-World War II era, having started with college jazz bands in the 1940s.

Over the decades, he became a notable figure in music, performing with icons such as Little Richard and James Brown, playing a memorable solo on "C.C. Rider," and co-creating the dance classic "Quarter to Three." The latter became a No. 1 hit in 1961 and was a staple in Bruce Springsteen concerts. His collaborations extended to producing Natalie Cole's Grammy-winning "Sophisticated Lady," overseeing recordings by Muddy Waters, and playing with the Rolling Stones during their early 1980s tours.

Known for his contributions to the music world, Barge was often compared to Clarence Clemons from the E Street Band. His reputation was such that he was mentioned by name in two early '60s hits. "Daddy G" originally referred to a local preacher but became Barge's nickname after the track "A Night With Daddy G" gained popularity.

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In addition to his musical career, Barge had success as a character actor in thrillers and served as a consultant for Martin Scorsese's documentary The Blues. Notably, Public Enemy's Chuck D once praised him as "the flyest octogenarian I know." (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)

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