Ernie Fields Jr., a celebrated American baritone saxophonist and sought-after session musician, served as a music contractor for popular television shows such as American Idol, The Voice, and X Factor.
He passed away on March 8, 2024, at the age of 89 in Pasadena, California. Fields collaborated with a plethora of blues, soul, and funk luminaries, including B. B. King, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye.
Moreover, he composed the score for the 1978 film Disco Godfather and made memorable appearances on American Idol, including showcasing his talent with the didgeridoo during Crystal Bowersox’s rendition of “Come Together” in 2010.
Key Facts About American Idol Star Ernie Fields
- Born and Died: Ernie Fields Jr. was born on July 29, 1934, and died on March 8, 2024, in Pasadena, California.
- Occupation: He was a musician, composer, and session musician, known for his work with blues, soul, and funk artists.
- Education: Graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1951 and attended Howard University.
- Career Highlights: Worked with notable artists including B. B. King, Bobby Bland, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Rick James, and Marvin Gaye. Played the didgeridoo during Crystal Bowersox’s performance of “Come Together” on American Idol in 2010. Served as a music contractor for American Idol, The Voice, and X Factor.
- Personal Life: Lived in Pasadena, California. Survived by three daughters, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
- Achievements: Founded Jade Sound/Fields Musical Services Inc. in the 1980s, providing services for recording studios, television shows, and movies. Appeared in various TV shows and films, including “Rhoda,” “Motown 25,” and “Sisters in the Name of Love”.
- Legacy: Known for his contributions to the music industry and his father’s legacy. Part of the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame.
- Instruments: Played multiple instruments, including the bagpipes and didgeridoo, showcasing his versatility .
- Hometown: Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, and resided in Los Angeles, California.
American Idol Star Ernie Fields Wikipedia And Bio: Who Was He?
Ernie Fields Jr. was a highly esteemed American musician, composer, and session player, renowned for his significant contributions to the music industry and for upholding his father’s esteemed musical legacy. Born on July 29, 1934, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and passing away on March 8, 2024, in Pasadena, California, Fields Jr. was the son of the legendary musician Ernie Fields, often hailed as the “King of Swing.”
Fields Jr.’s musical journey commenced at Booker T. Washington High School in 1951, later continuing at Howard University, where he showcased his talents by performing alongside his father’s band during breaks. Proficient on the baritone saxophone, he collaborated with a diverse array of artists spanning blues, soul, and funk genres, including luminaries such as B. B. King, Bobby Bland, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Rick James, and Marvin Gaye.
In the 1990s, Fields Jr. embarked on tours with trombonist Fred Wesley, demonstrating his versatility by proficiently playing both bagpipes and saxophone. A standout moment occurred on April 6, 2010, during an episode of American Idol, where he captivated audiences with his performance on the didgeridoo accompanying Crystal Bowersox’s rendition of “Come Together.”
Beyond his prowess as a musician, Fields Jr. served as a music contractor for esteemed television programs like American Idol, The Voice, and X Factor. In the 1980s, he established Jade Sound/Fields Musical Services Inc., offering his expertise to recording studios, television productions, and films. His illustrious career encompassed numerous media appearances, including television shows such as “Rhoda,” “Motown 25,” and “Sisters in the Name of Love,” as well as film contributions to “Choose Me” and “Without You I’m Nothing.”
Fields Jr. was a gifted multi-instrumentalist, proficient in saxophones, flutes, clarinet, bass clarinet, bagpipes, and didgeridoo. Moreover, he championed music education, serving as the bandleader of the Los Angeles Jazz Society Jazz in Schools Program for 15 years.
His enduring career bore testament to his profound connection to his father’s musical heritage, as well as his own indelible mark on the music industry. Inducted into the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, Fields Jr. left an indelible imprint on the music world, celebrated both as a performer and a distinguished music contractor.
Ernie Fields Family: Who Are They?
Ernie Fields Jr. was a prominent figure in the music industry, celebrated for his roles as a musician, composer, and session player. His familial ties also extend deeply into the world of music, with his daughters and grandchildren carrying forward the family’s musical legacy.
Daughters: Ernie Fields Jr. was blessed with three daughters: Lisa Fields Miller, Michelle Fields-Wilson, and Pam Williams. Each daughter has left an indelible mark on the music scene, perpetuating the family’s rich musical heritage.
Grandchildren: As a proud grandfather, Ernie Fields Jr. witnessed the musical pursuits of his three grandchildren: Ryan Brown, Paige Merrick, and Sheena Green. These individuals, inspired by their grandfather and great-grandfather, Ernie Fields Sr., have embarked on their own musical journeys.
Great-Grandchildren: Ernie Fields Jr. was also a cherished great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren, who continue to carry forth the family’s musical traditions. Their involvement in music showcases the enduring legacy of the Fields family.
Wife: While Ernie Fields Jr. chose to maintain his wife’s privacy, her unwavering support and influence undoubtedly played a pivotal role in his life and career, though specifics about her contributions remain largely undisclosed.
Sister: Ernie Fields Jr. is survived by his sister, Carmen Fields, residing in Boston, Massachusetts. Carmen, much like her brother and father, has made noteworthy contributions to the music industry. Married to Lorenz Finison, she also has a niece, Karly Finison.
Legacy: The Fields family’s impact on the music industry spans generations. From Ernie Fields Sr. to Ernie Fields Jr. and their descendants, each member has left an enduring mark on music, be it through performance, composition, mentoring, or coaching. Their legacy underscores the profound influence of music and the significance of familial and communal bonds within the arts.
Ernie Fields Jr.’s family continues to honor his memory by perpetuating their involvement in music. Through their individual contributions, they uphold the family’s deep-seated passion for music and performance, ensuring that the Fields name remains synonymous with excellence in the music industry.
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