Charles Owens

Charles Owens, a saxophonist recognized for his bold and exploratory approach, has conducted much of his professional life in understated roles or background contexts. After completing coursework at the University of San Diego and fulfilling a military obligation, he enrolled at the Berklee College of Music once discharged. From 1967 to 1968 he traveled with the Buddy Rich Orchestra, then spent the next two years alongside Mongo Santamaria. After moving to Los Angeles he established himself as a prolific studio player capable of handling virtually every reed instrument, among them oboe and English horn. Since settling in L.A., his notable jazz partnerships have encompassed Bobby Bryant, Henry Franklin, Patrice Rushen, the Gerald Wilson Orchestra, James Newton, John Carter, Horace Tapscott, the Clayton/Hamilton Jazz Orchestra and ensembles under his own direction. Although he produces distinctive timbres on each horn, Owens has never attained the prominence many felt he deserved in jazz, having issued only two leader dates, both recorded for Discovery in 1978 and 1980 and long unavailable.