Miles Davis - Miles Davis' Sax Man Sam Rivers Dead At 88

The influential musician, who also performed with Billie Holiday, died from pneumonia on Monday (26Dec11).

Also a celebrated pianist and flautist, Rivers was best known for his sax skills.

He joined Davis' band in 1964 and performed on the live album Miles in Tokyo. He also enjoyed solo success with the acclaimed album Fuchsia Swing Song.

In the 1970s, Rivers and his wife Bea became leading New York City jazz figures, founding the Studio Rivbea venue. The saxophonist also served as the composer-in-residence for the Harlem Opera Society.