Curtis Peagler, a fine and swinging saxophonist was an asset to many groups over the years. His alto sound was heavily influenced by Charlie Parker and Eddie Vinson. He began playing the C-melody sax at 13 and quickly joined the Sons of Rhythm as an alto. Peagler was a musician and support singer Big Maybelle before he was called up to the Army in 1953. After being discharged in 1956, Peagler attended the Cincinnati Conservatory and continued to play locally for two years. In 1960, he began recording for Prestige with the help of Eddie “Lockjaw”. Peagler recorded with LemWinchester, and then joined the Modern Jazz Disciples which recorded for Columbia. In 1962, he moved to Los Angeles to be a freelancer. He spent 1966-1967 with Ray Charles and 1969 with him. He did studio work and toured for seven years with Count Basie (1971-1978). Peagler settled in Los Angeles and freelanced. He also founded Sea Pea Records and recorded as a leader with Sea Pea and Pablo. Peagler also appeared on dates with Harry “Sweets”, Edison, and Big Joe Turner. Curtis Peagler recorded with the Kansas City swing-oriented group, Concord Swing before he was diagnosed with heart disease. Allmusic
