Galveston Island's rich musical heritage produced three extraordinary African-American musicians who carried their island-inspired sounds to the world stage. Frederick Tillis, Louis "Blues Boy" Jones, and Richard "Notes" Williams all grew up in 1930s and 40s Galveston, where music spilled from dance halls, churches, and pavilions, shaping their musical identities before they ventured beyond the Gulf Coast.

• Frederick "Baby" Tillis (1930-2020) began performing at age 12, earned a PhD in music composition, and bridged jazz with classical music
• Tillis composed over 125 musical works, published 15 books of poetry, and devoted his life to mentoring young musicians
• Louis "Blues Boy" Jones (1931-1984) learned singing in church choirs before working at pioneering Black-owned Peacock Records
• Jones performed alongside Otis Redding and gained international recognition, though his legacy was nearly forgotten until his recordings resurfaced decades later
• Richard "Notes" Williams (1931-1985) mastered the trumpet and performed with jazz legends like Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus
• All three musicians served in the military during the Korean War period, with both Tillis and Williams directing military bands
• Their stories reveal how Galveston wasn't just a backdrop for music but a launchpad for extraordinary musical careers
• Galveston continues its musical tradition today through venues like Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe and the Grand 1894 Opera House

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