Curtis Ousley (February 7, 1934 – August 13, 1971), who performed under the stage name
King Curtis, was an American saxophone
virtuoso known for
rhythm and blues,
rock and roll, soul, blues,
funk and
soul jazz. Variously a bandleader, band member, and
session musician, he was also a musical director and record producer. Adept at
tenor,
alto, and
soprano saxophone, he was best known for his distinctive
riffs and solos such as on "
Yakety Yak", which later became the inspiration for
Boots Randolph's "
Yakety Sax" and his own "Memphis Soul Stew".