Saxman George Howard was born in Philadelphia in 1956. In the 70s he toured with Philly based groups such as Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes and Blue Magic. Howard got his big break in 1979 when he toured with Grover Washington, Jr. In 1982 he released his first album, " Asphalt Garden". Two of his many performances were at the Capital Jazz Fest in 1995 and 1996 in the Washington DC area where this photo was taken. More than ten albums later Howard had become a contemporary jazz favorite. George Howard had been diagnosed with lymphoma about two months ago and died on March 22, 1998. He was 41 and was survived by his daughter Jade Lauren Howard, and two sisters. This great musician's unique and soulful sound will be sincerely missed by all.

A special fund has been set up for his daughter, Jade. Donations can be sent to: Nite Lite Productions 23622 Calabasas Road, Suite 101 Calabasas, California 91302

Photo taken at The Capital Jazz Fest, Bull Run Park, Fairfax, VA, June 1995