[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 158 (Thursday, October 12, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1931-E1932]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       MUSIC LEGEND EDDIE HARRIS

                                 ______


                         HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR.

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 12, 1995

  Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of the most 
outstanding jazz artists of our time, Eddie Harris. As a great 
musician, he has composed hits such as ``Listen Here'' 

[[Page E 1932]]
and ``Exodus,'' which sold over a million copies. As a distinguished 
pedagogue, he has written seven books on music and taught in Detroit, 
Chicago, New Orleans, and throughout Europe.
  Eddie Harris was born in Chicago where he discovered his love for 
music by playing piano and singing with gospel choirs. He soon extended 
his musical studies to the vibraphone, the clarinet, and the saxophone 
and later traveled widely with the 7th Army Symphony Band. His 
saxophone, piano, and experimentalism with synthesizers and trumpets 
thrust him into international spotlight as an innovative and creative 
symbol of jazz where he remains today.
  Once called a musical Michelangelo, Harris earned a reputation by 
experimenting with different playing techniques, most notably by 
exploring the possibilities of electronic saxophone amplification. His 
interests are as broad as his talents, and he is known for his 
influence on funk and for the revolutionary impact of his introduction 
of rock music into jazz fusion. I am pleased that Legends of Jazz is 
honoring this great musical force who holds well-deserved respect and 
admiration.

                          ____________________