Teddy Harris

American jazz pianist (also saxophonist and teacher) from Detroit, MI. Music director for The Supremes for sixteen years. At age 14 performed on saxophone with father at local club; early 1950s recorded for Detroit-based Fortune label; 1957 recorded on Jackie Wilson’s hit “Reet Petite”; performed in Paris with saxophonist Eli “Lucky” Thompson in 1959–1961; performed in local Detroit clubs 1961 and in 1962 joined Motown Record’s Motortown Revue; worked with bassist Ernie Farrow 1963; mid 1960s served as musical director for Aretha Franklin; member of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band 1969–1970; served as musical director for the Supremes 1970–1986; 1973 scored tile number for motion picture Jonathan Livingston Seagull; early 1980s formed the New Breed Bebop Society Orchestra; embarked on world tour with the Michigan Jazz Masters. Worked, among others with: Art Farmer, Yousef Lateef, Lou Donaldson, Marvin Gaye, Martha Reeves, Aretha Franklin.
Born: August 27, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan - Died: August 22, 2005 in Detroit, Michigan.