Tony Oxley

Tony Oxley, the late English drummer and electronic musician, was a pioneering force in free improvisation and avant-garde jazz. Born in Sheffield, Oxley's musical journey began with self-taught piano lessons, transitioning to drums at the age of 17. His career took off when he moved to London in 1966, becoming the house drummer at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, where he backed legendary musicians like Sonny Rollins, Bill Evans, and Stan Getz. Oxley's innovative approach to combining jazz percussion with electronics set him apart, earning him a reputation as a brilliant and creative improviser. He co-founded Incus Records in 1970, a label that became a cornerstone for improvisatory music. Oxley's debut album, "The Baptised Traveller," recorded in 1969, is celebrated as an avant-garde classic. Throughout his career, Oxley collaborated with jazz greats and continued to explore new musical territories, leaving an indelible mark on the free jazz and improvisation scenes. His legacy endures through his influential recordings and the countless musicians he inspired.