Births on May 5

Ace Cannon, American saxophonist

The Enduring Legacy of Ace Cannon: A Saxophone Virtuoso

John "Ace" Cannon, born on May 5, 1934, and passing away on December 6, 2018, was an iconic American tenor and alto saxophonist whose distinctive sound left an indelible mark on the landscape of instrumental pop and rock and roll. Hailing from the musical hotbed of the American South, Cannon’s career spanned decades, evolving from a sought-after session musician to a celebrated solo artist, captivating audiences with his smooth, soulful, yet often energetic saxophone melodies.

A Rising Star at Hi Records

Ace Cannon’s journey to solo stardom was significantly shaped by his association with Hi Records, a legendary Memphis-based label known for its distinctive sound and stable of talented artists. Early in his career, he became a prominent fixture, playing and touring extensively with one of Hi Records' most successful acts, Bill Black's Combo. Bill Black, famously Elvis Presley's original bassist, formed his instrumental group, which quickly became a powerhouse on the charts. Cannon's saxophone work was an integral part of their sound, contributing significantly to their success and allowing him to hone his craft and gain invaluable experience on the road.

The Breakthrough Solo Career and Chart Success

Building on his reputation, Ace Cannon launched his solo career in 1961, initially with the familiar backing of Bill Black’s Combo, which lent a consistent, high-quality sound to his early records. His debut solo single, "Tuff," proved to be an immediate hit. This instrumental track, showcasing Cannon's robust saxophone tone and catchy melody, climbed to an impressive No. 17 on the prestigious U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1962, firmly establishing him as a compelling solo artist. The momentum continued with his follow-up single, "Blues (Stay Away from Me)," which also performed admirably, reaching No. 36 on the Hot 100 later that same year. These early successes cemented his place in the pantheon of instrumental music, demonstrating his ability to craft tunes that resonated widely with the American public.

A Pioneering Live Recording

In April 1965, Ace Cannon released the album Ace Cannon Live (catalog number HL 12025), a recording that would prove to be groundbreaking in its production. According to the insightful liner notes penned by Nick Pesce, this album was recorded in front of a live audience, not in a traditional concert venue, but remarkably, inside Hi Records’ very own recording studio. Pesce famously claimed this was an unprecedented approach at the time, marking perhaps the first instance of such a "live in the studio" album recording. This innovative method aimed to capture the raw energy and spontaneity of a live performance while benefiting from the controlled acoustics and pristine sound quality of a professional studio, offering listeners a unique and intimate experience.

Accolades, Honors, and a Return Home

The profound impact of Ace Cannon’s music and his contributions to the genre did not go unrecognized. In 2000, his enduring influence on early rock and roll was officially honored with his induction into the esteemed Rockabilly Hall of Fame. Further recognition came from his roots; in May 2007, his beloved hometown of Calhoun City, Mississippi, paid tribute to its native son by inaugurating the first annual Ace Cannon Festival, a testament to his local pride and global reach. Just over a year later, on December 9, 2008, he received another significant honor with his induction into the Mississippi Musicians' Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy within his home state's rich musical heritage.

After years of extensive touring and performing for fans across the globe, Ace Cannon chose to return to his cherished hometown of Calhoun City in the late 1980s, where he continued to reside until his passing. Even in his later years, he maintained an active performance schedule, playing numerous dates annually, a clear indication of his unwavering passion for music and connection with his audience. When not on stage, he could often be found enjoying a more relaxed rhythm of life, diligently working on his golf game at his home course, embodying a harmonious blend of a life dedicated to music and simple pleasures.

Ace Cannon passed away peacefully at his home on December 6, 2018, at the age of 84, leaving behind a rich musical tapestry that continues to inspire and entertain. His unique sound and pioneering spirit ensure his place as a true legend of instrumental music.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ace Cannon

Who was Ace Cannon?

Ace Cannon, born John Cannon, was a celebrated American tenor and alto saxophonist known for his distinctive instrumental rock and roll and pop recordings, particularly prominent in the 1960s.

What were Ace Cannon's most famous songs?

His most well-known solo hits include "Tuff," which reached No. 17 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1962, and "Blues (Stay Away from Me)," which charted at No. 36 the same year.

With whom did Ace Cannon play before his solo career?

Before launching his successful solo career, Ace Cannon was a key member of Bill Black's Combo, a popular instrumental group signed to Hi Records, performing and touring extensively with them.

What was unique about the album Ace Cannon Live?

Released in 1965, Ace Cannon Live was notable for being recorded in front of a live audience inside the Hi Records recording studio, rather than a traditional concert venue. Liner notes from the album suggest this might have been a pioneering recording method for its time.

What honors did Ace Cannon receive?

Ace Cannon was inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame in 2000. His hometown of Calhoun City, Mississippi, initiated the annual Ace Cannon Festival in 2007, and he was inducted into the Mississippi Musicians' Hall of Fame in 2008.

When and where did Ace Cannon pass away?

Ace Cannon passed away at his home in Calhoun City, Mississippi, on December 6, 2018, at the age of 84.