Greg Fingers Taylor, American harmonica player, dies at 71: obituary

Wichita, KS – The music world mourns the loss of Greg ‘Fingers’ Taylor, the acclaimed American harmonica player known for his integral role in Jimmy Buffett’s band. Taylor, fondly dubbed ‘The Harpoon Man,’ passed away on November 23, 2023, leaving behind a rich musical legacy. He was 71 years old at the time of his passing, with the cause of his death yet undisclosed.

Taylor’s harmonica prowess became synonymous with Jimmy Buffett’s sound, marking an essential element of Buffett’s performances over many years. The news of Taylor’s passing echoed sentiments of loss and tributes highlighting his exceptional talent.

Born in Wichita, Kansas, on June 3, 1952, Greg ‘Fingers’ Taylor attended Wichita North High School before embarking on a remarkable musical journey. His connection with Jimmy Buffett traces back to their meeting at The University of Southern Mississippi in 1970, solidifying a partnership that lasted several decades.

Initially nicknamed ‘Fingers’ during his time with The Buttermilk Blues Band in 1969, Taylor’s musical journey spanned various collaborations. He played keyboards for Larry Raspberry and The Highsteppers before joining Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band in 1974, contributing significantly to Buffett’s repertoire with songs like “Big Rig” and “Miss You So Badly.”

Gary Roland Songwriter-Musician-Performer posted on Facebook,

“RIP GREG “FINGERS” TAYLOROne of the best Harmonica Players ever, ….. passed away.Greg “Fingers” Taylor, who played harmonica with Jimmy Buffett for many years. He was an integral part of Jimmy Buffett’s sound and live show. We had the honor of meeting him and playing with him in Key West, with Jimmy Buffett.”

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Beyond his collaborations with Buffett, Taylor’s solo career boasted five studio albums and two compilations, showcasing his musical versatility. From 2000 to 2005, he collaborated with trop rock artist Don Middlebrook on four albums, leaving an indelible mark in the trop-rock genre.

Taylor’s influence extended beyond albums; he performed with A1A – The Official and Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show, toured with various artists, and in 2006, rejoined Buffett and the Coral Reefer Band on stage at the Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati.

Greg “Fingers” Taylor passes away at 71: https://t.co/bVusp0EdJB pic.twitter.com/6FOASuJjVx

— Jimmy Buffett World (@BuffettWorld) November 25, 2023

His musical legacy lives on through his children, Steven, a blues guitarist, and Hunter, an Audio/Visual Technician, continuing the family’s passion for music.

The family will soon release an obituary and details regarding funeral arrangements for Greg ‘Fingers’ Taylor, celebrating a life dedicated to shaping the trop-rock and blues music landscape.

Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn

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