Plas Johnson, saxophonist behind 'The Pink Panther' theme, dies at 94

Plas Johnson, the American saxophonist whose iconic solo on Henry Mancini's 'The Pink Panther Theme' became one of the most recognizable melodies in film history, died on July 15 at his home in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, at the age of 94, just six days before his 95th birthday. His children Eric Johnson and Stephanie Oliver confirmed his death to The New York Times Source: elcolombiano.

The Pink Panther legacy

Johnson's sinuous, playful saxophone tenor defined the opening credits of the 1963 film directed by Blake Edwards and starring Peter Sellers. The piece, composed specifically for Johnson by Mancini, was recorded in only two takes — a session Johnson later recalled with characteristic modesty: "When we finished, everyone applauded, even the string players" Source: abces. The soundtrack won three Grammy Awards and was named by the American Film Institute among the 20 greatest film scores Source: elcaribedr.

A legendary session musician

Beyond the Pink Panther, Johnson was one of the most sought-after session players in Los Angeles, a core member of The Wrecking Crew — the group behind countless hits from the 1950s through the 1970s. He recorded with Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, Barbra Streisand, The Beach Boys (on Pet Sounds), and many others Source: infobae. Johnson often remained uncredited, a practice he critiqued in a 2008 documentary: "Worse than not getting paid... was not even having your name on them" Source: diariolibree.

Final years

Born in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, on July 21, 1931, Johnson grew up in a musical family and was largely self-taught. He performed until late in life, giving a show at his retirement community just a month before his death .