Who was Eddie 'Tan Tan' Thornton and what was his musical background?

Eddie 'Tan Tan' Thornton was a renowned trumpeter born in Jamaica who played in London's music scene, contributing to various genres from 1960s pop to British reggae.

What famous songs did Eddie Thornton play on with Georgie Fame or The Beatles?

Thornton played on Georgie Fame's "Getaway" and The Beatles' "Got to Get You into My Life."

How did Eddie Thornton contribute to the British reggae scene?

He was a key member of the horn section for the band Aswad and collaborated with many prominent reggae artists and producers.

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

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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.

Eddie 'Tan Tan' Thornton: A Jamaican Beat in Swinging London

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.