Pee Wee Ellis will perform with Bristol's ambassador for music, James Morton

James Morton will be accompanied by musician Pee Wee Ellis, best known as the bandleader for both James Brown and Van Morrison.

As the architect of several era-defining classics, Ellis is credited with helping to shape popular music of the late 1960s and beyond. He joined James Brown's band in 1965 playing alto sax, and within six months was bandleader, musical director and songwriter. Cold Sweat, widely considered the first true funk record, was the fruit of Ellis' collaboration, along with a string of other hits over the next four years.

Upon moving to New York in 1970, Ellis began producing and directing for the likes of Brother Jack McDuff, Esther Phillips and George Benson. From 1979, he spent four years working in California as Van Morrison's musical director and bandleader, arranging the horns on albums such as Into the Music and Common One.

James Morton, known as 'the kid' in jazz circles, is a long-standing member of hip-hop legends, The Herbaliser, a group founded in London during the early 1990s. The last 15 years have seen Morton develop an international career in jazz, working with artists including Kasabian, Cee Lo Green, Roni Size and George Clinton.

As the first ever Bristol ambassador for music, Morton has recently been commissioned for a new project, Craqsquad, by Canary Wharf, Chestochowa, and The Polish Ministry of Culture. The project is a collaboration with multi-award winning producer Dj Suv, and includes members of Massive Attack, Roni Size Reprazent and The Herbaliser.

Known for his unique lyrical and rhythmic style, Morton's performances convey a strong sense of emotion that enable him to truly connect with the audience.

Accompanied by a full live band, the duo will perform at the Marine Theatre on Saturday, March 14, 2020. The concert begins at 8pm. Tickets are £14 in advance, available from the theatre's website or box office, or £17 on the door.