Bobby Wellins is a jazz tenor saxophonist from Glasgow, Scotland. Born Robert Coull Wellins in 1936, he dies in 2016. He comes from a musical family and studies music at college, beginning his career on alto saxophone before moving to tenor.

Career

After college, Wellins plays in dance bands and makes his first recording in 1956 with Buddy Featherstonhaugh’s quintet. In the early 1960s he works with the Tony Crombie Band and with Tubby Hayes, before beginning a long association with pianist Stan Tracey. One of the best-known results of that partnership is Under Milk Wood, recorded in 1965.

After a period of inactivity, he forms his own quartet in 1976. He also forms a quintet with fellow tenor saxophonist Don Weller. He later continues during the 1980s and 1990s as a soloist, composer and teacher.

Recordings and recognition

Wellins records more than 25 albums under his own name or with other groups. He is especially known for a distinctive smoky tone and is regarded as one of the most original British saxophonists.

Associated groups

He is associated with The Stan Tracey Quartet, Bobby Wellins Quartet, Spectrum and The New Departures Quartet.