Pete Christlieb is one of the most accomplished and recognizable tenor saxophonists of his generation, with a career spanning more than five decades across jazz, television, film, and popular music.
Born in Los Angeles, California, into a musical family, Pete was surrounded by music from an early age. His father, Donald Orville Christlieb, was a renowned bassoonist and double reed player whose sound was featured on hundreds of productions for 20th Century Fox. Inspired by this rich musical environment, Pete began performing professionally shortly after high school.
Early in his career, Pete studied with saxophonist Bob Cooper and was mentored by legendary pianist Jimmy Rowles, whose unique musical approach helped shape Pete’s artistic voice. He quickly established himself as a sought-after performer, working with artists such as Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Sonny Criss, Chet Baker, Della Reese, Woody Herman, Louie Bellson, Pearl Bailey, Count Basie, and many others.
A pivotal moment in Pete’s career came when he joined The Tonight Show Band following Johnny Carson’s move to Los Angeles. What began as a recommendation from Louie Bellson turned into a 20-year tenure with one of television’s most iconic bands. During this period, he also became a first-call studio musician, contributing to countless television programs, films, and recordings, including Star Trek, The Glen Campbell Show, Sonny & Cher, and numerous other productions.
Beyond the jazz world, Pete is perhaps best known for performing the unforgettable tenor saxophone solos on Steely Dan’s “Deacon Blues” and “FM (No Static at All),” as well as his work on Natalie Cole’s Grammy-winning album Unforgettable. Throughout his career, he has recorded and performed with artists including Quincy Jones, Tom Waits, Michael Bublé, Doc Severinsen, Vince Guaraldi, Bill Holman, and many more.
An acclaimed bandleader, recording artist, and producer, Pete has released numerous albums under his own name, earned multiple Grammy nominations, and continues to perform and record today. His remarkable body of work reflects a lifetime dedicated to musical excellence, making him one of the most respected voices in jazz saxophone history.
Whether you’re a lifelong jazz fan, a saxophone enthusiast, or simply love hearing stories from the legends who helped shape modern music, this conversation is not to be missed. Watch the full episode with Pete Christlieb here:
⬇️ Find exactly what you’re looking for in the episode by using the timestamps below:
🔗 Stay Connected and Explore More from Pete Christlieb:
- Website:https://petechristlieb.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/petechristlieb.tenorsaxophonist
- Blues sax solo on Sweetness: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VswIzJygAns
- Limehouse Blues with the Lori Mecham Quartet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFlbufYl71o
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