Jimmy Z
| Jimmy Z | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | James Zavala |
| Also known as | Jimmy Z |
| Born | February 7, 1955 |
| Origin | North Highlands, California |
| Genres | Rock, funk, blues |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, songwriter, producer |
| Instruments | Flute, harmonica, saxophone (baritone, soprano, tenor) |
| Years active | 1980–present |
| Labels |
IRS (1980s) Ruthless (1991) Boneyardsrecords (2003) (with the ZTribe) Zavala Songs, Inc. (2004) (with the ZTribe) |
| Associated acts | Dr. Dre, Eazy-E, Rod Stewart, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Eurythmics, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Etta James, Jaguares |
| Website | ztribe |
Jimmy 'Z' Zavala (born February 7, 1955) is an American musician.
In his teens, the saxophonist (often known by his nickname as Jimmy Z), frequented nightspots in his hometown of Sacramento, California, often sporting his trademark dark sunglasses. During this time, he was introduced to the mouth harp and harmonica music of Little Walter and Taj Mahal.
Zavala went on to become a favorite in many Northern California clubs. When he took up saxophone during a three-year period with various blues bands, he entered the world of rock 'n' roll.
Influenced by Junior Walker and King Curtis, Zavala then began making a name for himself during a lengthy six-year stint of non-stop touring.
Zavala left roadwork behind when he moved to Los Angeles in 1980. His band members wouldn't follow, so he set out on his own. While jamming at the Central Club on LA's Sunset Strip, he came to the attention of Rod Stewart band members Robin Le Mesurier and Jim Cregan, who later suggested Zavala when Stewart required a sax player. Stewart was impressed with Jimmy Z's proficiency on harmonica and flute as well as saxophone, and he became one of the boys in the band.
In addition to his work with Stewart's group, Jimmy teamed up with Kevin Savigar on a session for John Cougar. He has also worked with Les Dudek, ex-Knack guitarist, Doug Fieger, The Rockets and Ronnie Wood. He then played with the Eurythmics for a number of years. His harmonica is featured in their hit song "Missionary Man".
Zavala also performed onstage with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers for Bob Geldof's Live Aid concert at JFK Stadium in Philadelphia in 1985, as well as Petty's Pack Up The Plantation tour. He soon became one of the more sought after session players in Los Angeles.
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