Biography
Edwin Birdsong, an organist whose contributions often went underappreciated, collaborated with a wide array of musicians across different genres and settings. Rooted in gospel traditions, he was raised by a minister father within a rigid fundamentalist household. His involvement with the Los Angeles Community Choir brought him into contact with performers like Merry Clayton, Billy Preston, and D.J. Rogers, after which he fulfilled a tour of duty in Vietnam. In Germany, Birdsong performed at various clubs for military personnel. Upon relocating to New York, he led a blues and jazz trio. He pursued studies in composition at both the Manhattan School of Music and Juilliard, later performing with the Youth Symphony Orchestra. In 1971, Polydor became his recording home, resulting in the release of two albums blending funk, rock, fusion, and jazz—What It Is that same year and Supernatural two years later. Dance of Survival appeared on Bamboo in 1975, followed by his self-titled effort on Philadelphia International in 1979, which featured the track "Phiss-Phizz." Greater recognition came through his partnership with Roy Ayers, the vibist and vocalist, as they jointly composed "Running Away" and "Freaky Deaky" while Birdsong also served as co-producer on the albums Vibrations, Lifeline, and Let's Do It. Their joint efforts extended to the group Eighties Ladies for both productions and songs. Salsoul issued his singles "Perfect Love" in 1984 and "Son of a Rapper Snapper" the following year, and Birdsong maintained an active schedule of session performances alongside numerous artists such as Stevie Wonder.
Albums
