Home / Arts and Entertainment / Eddie 'Tan Tan' Thornton: A Jamaican Beat in Swinging London
Eddie 'Tan Tan' Thornton: A Jamaican Beat in Swinging London
31 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Trumpeter bridged Jamaican rhythms with London's 60s music scene.
- Played on iconic tracks for The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.
- Became a key figure in the British reggae scene with Aswad.
Jamaican-born trumpeter Eddie "Tan Tan" Thornton, who died at 94, masterfully blended his native rhythms into London's vibrant 1960s music landscape. A notable member of Georgie Fame's Blue Flames, his trumpet significantly contributed to their chart-topping "Getaway." Thornton also lent his distinctive sound to The Beatles' "Got to Get You into My Life" and The Rolling Stones' "She's a Rainbow."
Thornton's musical journey began at Jamaica's Alpha boys' school, where he trained in classical and swing music before immigrating to London in 1954. His extensive collaborations included work with Jimi Hendrix, the Animals, and the Small Faces, with the latter even penning a song inspired by his longing for Jamaica.
He later became a pivotal force in the British reggae scene, notably joining Aswad and contributing to their growing fame. His career also saw him play with Boney M, and numerous reggae artists, solidifying his status as a versatile and influential musician across genres until his passing.
