Andrew “Andy” Ennis, a distinguished jazz saxophonist known for his work with Ray Charles, passed away on August 30 at his Northwest Baltimore home after a battle with cancer. He was 86 years old.
Andy Ennis grew up in the Gilmor Homes neighborhood from 1941 to 1955 with his sister, the celebrated singer Ethel Ennis. Six years younger than his sister, Andy began making a name for himself as a saxophonist while still in high school. By the time he graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in 1959, he was already a rising star in the local music scene, often performing alongside his friend Carlos Johnson.
Born to Andrew Ennis, a barber, and Arrabelle Ennis, a church musician and organist, Andy inherited his musical talent from his mother’s side of the family. According to Earl Arnett, his brother-in-law, Andy was skilled on the saxophone, clarinet, flute, and piano.
Andy Ennis began his career playing in local clubs on Pennsylvania Avenue and performing with The Swallows vocal group in Maryland. He was also a member of Tracy McCleary’s Royal Men of Rhythm at the Royal Theater.
After being drafted into the Army, he attended the Naval School of Music in Anacostia and was subsequently stationed in Korea, where he played with the 7th Infantry Division’s marching, dance, and concert bands.
Following his discharge in 1963, Ennis returned to Baltimore and continued performing locally until he joined Bill “Honky Tonk” Doggett’s band in 1965. After more than two years on the road, he went back to Baltimore and played in local clubs until he was invited to join Ray Charles’ Big Band in 1968. Ennis became a key member of Charles’ band, initially as lead saxophonist and later as the bandleader, performing with Ray Charles and the Raylettes at renowned venues worldwide.
“Andy was known for his liveliness and humor,” said Arnett, who was also the husband of the late Ethel Ennis. “He never took himself too seriously and credited his grandmother’s prayers for keeping him grounded, avoiding the pitfalls of a musician’s lifestyle.”
Despite an offer from Ray Charles to produce a solo album, Ennis grew weary of the road and returned to Baltimore, where he resumed playing in local clubs. His performances with fellow saxophonist Mickey Fields were well-attended by musicians from the region.
Rosa Pryor-Trusty, a friend and musical manager, described Ennis as “low-key, humble, and gifted,” noting that he often invited young, aspiring musicians on stage with him at the Sportsmen’s Lounge, sharing his talents generously.
In 1987, Ennis took a new path and joined the Baltimore Police Department as a civilian motor pool dispatcher. As he aged, Ennis struggled with declining hearing and arthritis, which eventually prevented him from playing his saxophone for extended periods.
He is survived by his daughter April Ennis, his sons Antoine Ennis and Nathaniel Richardson, all of Baltimore; his brother-in-law Earl Arnett; and numerous grandchildren.
