Faruq Z. Bey (Born Jesse Davis)
DOB Unknown – June 1, 2012
Faruq Z. Bey was a jazz saxophonist who made his mark on popular music by way of free jazz. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Bey found inspiration in jazz icons like John Coltrane and Sun Ra. In 1972, he co-founded Griot Galaxy, an avant-garde jazz band who were a favorite throughout out the Detroit area free jazz scene as well as in Europe where they found their most success touring. They released just two proper albums during their run. The group stayed together until 1989, after which Bey worked with many other jazz artists while focusing much of his efforts on the Northwoods Improvisers who recorded several albums with Bey. During his later years, Bey’s health deteriorated to the point where he needed an oxygen tank a by his side at all times, but it barely slowed him down. He also found time to write two books of poetry as well as a theoretical/aesthetic manifesto. Faruq Bey passed away on June 1, 2012 of multiple health issues including emphysema. He was thought to be 70.
Thanks to Henk de Bruin of 2+ Printing for the assist.