George Duke grew up in Marin City, California, an unincorporated community developed first to house Sausalito shipyard workers during World War II. He attended Tamalpais High School in Mill Valley, already excelling in music, and went on to classical studies (trombone and piano) at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Stints with Cannonball Adderley and Frank Zappa led to outings with Billy Cobham, Stanley Clarke, a string of solo albums showcasing a love of funk and fusion, and another career in the studio as a successful producer. The world lost a warm, wonderful person and an amazing musician when George Duke passed away on August 5, 2013.

1. George Duke describes the time he tried to change the notes. “Sister Serene” from I Love The Blues She Heard My Cry, MPS (1977)
2. George Duke on playing with Frank Zappa. “Sister Serene” from I Love The Blues, She Heard My Cry, MPS (1977)
3. George Duke on being himself. “We Give Our Love” from Don’t Let Go, CBS (1978)