- He was inspired to take up the vibraphone when he heard the sound of Milt Jackson's music wafting from a record shop in Pasadena. He bought the album, "Miles Davis All Stars, Vol. 2," and wore it out.
- He was a vibraphonist. During his 55-year career, he performed and recorded with many of the greatest jazz artists of his time, including tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins and pianist Herbie Hancock.
- His father was a master mason and his mother was a hairdresser. His sister Peggy was a singer who was a Ray Charles Raylette. His older brother Teddy was a bricklaying jazz fan who listened to records with saxophonist Dexter Gordon.
- Has two sons, Barry and Teddy, and two grandchildren.
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