Sylvester James Jr.

Full Name: Sylvester James Jr., known more simply as Sylvester
Profession: Singer-Songwriter

Biography: Sylvester James Jr.'s father, Sylvester James Sr., was a musician who played the trumpet and his mother, Lillian James, was a homemaker. James Jr. began playing the trumpet at the age of five and by the time he was eight, he was playing in his father's band.

In 1966, James Jr. joined the Army and was stationed in Germany. He played in the Army band and his talent was quickly recognized. After his discharge, he returned to Houston and began playing with various jazz and R&B bands. He also began to study music theory and composition.

In the early 1970s, James Jr. moved to Los Angeles, where he continued to play with various bands and also began to work as a session musician. He appeared on a number of albums by other artists, including Thelonious Monk, Herbie Hancock, and Miles Davis.

He also began to release his own albums, including The Sylvester James Jr. Quintet (1974) and First Light (1975). James Jr. continued to play and record throughout the rest of his life.

Born: September 6, 1947
Birthplace: Watts, Los Angeles, California, USA

Generation: Baby Boomer
Chinese Zodiac: Pig
Star Sign: Virgo

Died: December 16, 1988 (aged 41)
Cause of Death: Complications from HIV/AIDS