Curtis Peagler (1929–1992) was an American hard bop, jazz, and R&B alto and tenor saxophonist from Cincinnati, Ohio. Peagler began playing the C-melody saxophone at age 13, influenced by Charlie Parker, Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson, and Louis Jordan. Peagler performed with the Sons of Rhythm and singer Big Maybelle before serving in the U.S. Army (1953–1955). Following his discharge, Peagler studied at the Cincinnati Conservatory. In 1959, Peagler led the Modern Jazz Disciples, releasing the albums Modern Jazz Disciples (1959) and Right Down Front (1962). Peagler moved to Los Angeles in 1962, performing with Ray Charles (1966–1969) and the Count Basie Band (1971–1978). Peagler accompanied Ella Fitzgerald and performed with Jimmy Smith and Freddie Redd. Peagler established the label Sea Pea Records and recorded for Prestige, Concord, and Pablo. Peagler died in Los Angeles on December 19, 1992, following heart surgery.
