Ayers, Roy E., Jr.
(*1940)
AYERS, ROY E., JR. (10 Sep 1940, Los Angeles, California). A vibraphonist who was inspired by Lionel Hampton and Milt Jackson , Roy Ayers studied piano with his mother at the age of 5. He attended Los Angeles City College and played steel guitar in jazz groups until around 17 years of age, when he bought his first set of vibes. In 1961 he turned professional and then worked with Gerald Wilson, Phineas Newborn, Jack Wilson, Teddy Edwards, Curtis Amy, Hampton Hawes, Chico Hamilton , and led his…