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Willis “Gator Tail” Jackson – Recording Session
A strong early-70s soul-jazz session from tenor sax heavyweight Willis “Gator Tail” Jackson, blending groove-driven covers with deep, late-night sax tone. Released on Jazz Note Records (JNLP 5003), this album captures the crossover moment where jazz met soul, pop, and R&B radio.
Jackson’s warm, gritty tenor sound carries familiar hits into instrumental territory — from Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine” to Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On.” The session has a polished studio feel, arranged by Reuben Phillips and produced by Paul Winley, giving it a tight but soulful character. It sits comfortably alongside other groove-based jazz titles that appeal to both jazz collectors and vinyl buyers looking for accessible instrumental funk.
A great addition for buyers who enjoy Grant Green, King Curtis, or early ’70s Prestige/Blue Note crossover material.
Track Listing
Side One
Love Story
It’s Too Late
Ain’t No Sunshine
What’s Going On
Side Two
Soul Train
Don’t Knock My Love
Heavy Makes You Happy (Sha-Na-Boom Boom)
I’d Like To Teach The World To Sing
