Saluting Kenny Ray DeWalt: Memphis Trombone Player for Rev. Al Green, The Bar-Kays

Memphis musician Kenny DeWalt in action.

Once upon a time, I was a beginning saxophone student and my cousin, Kenneth "Kenny Ray" DeWalt, (right) was learning to play the trombone under the direction of Emerson Able Jr., at the famed Manassas High School in Memphis, Tennessee.

Cuz taught me to use a broom to help learn the keys on the sax. Then he worked with me on breathing correctly. All of that coupled with Band Director Kurl McKinney's instruction came in handy when the Lincoln Junior High School Band went to the Strawberry Festival in Humboldt, Tenn., back in the day. (See my band photo in the slideshow below).

Kenny Ray went on to become a professional horn player, performing with Rev. Al Green and The Bar-Kays, thanks in part to my mom, Mrs. Rowena Whiting, who bought him his first horn. She also prophesied that he would perform on "The Tonight Show." He didn't believe her and laughed. Years later he called my mom from "The Tonight Show" just before he performed!!

Meanwhile, in high school and college, I put the saxophone down and picked up a microphone, video camera, and other journalist’s tools. This is my Black History Month salute to my 54-year-old cousin, Kenny DeWalt, who shared insights with me about his amazing professional career during an interview Jan. 5, 2013, in Memphis.

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Q: Who are some of the entertainers you have recorded or played for?

Q: What is a live recording in a studio like? Take us there.

Q: Any final words of wisdom for us?

Q: What TV shows have you performed on?

Q: Did you see yourself becoming a national and international musician when you were in school at Manassas High School in Memphis, Tennessee?

Q: What's been the most amazing experience you have had during your career?

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