An unsung cog in the Motown assembly line, Hank Cosby was not only an exemplary saxophonist who played with the earliest incarnation of the label's legendary studio group, the Funk Brothers, but he also co-wrote such enduring classics as Stevie Wonder's "Uptight (Everything's Alright)" and Smokey Robinson & the Miracles' "Tears of a Clown." Born May 12, 1928 in Detroit, Cosby served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, where he played alongside jazz great Cannonball Adderley in the military band. Upon his return to the Motor City, he joined pianist Joe Hunter's jazz combo, alongside bassist James Jamerson, drummer Benny Benjamin, guitarist Larry Veeder and baritone saxophonist Mike Terry. A mainstay of Detroit's club circuit during the late 1950s, the group was also a steady recording studio presence and when Berry Gordy, Jr. launched Motown in 1959, he appointed Hunter and crew the label's regular session band. In addition to his instrumental contributions, Cosby quickly proved himself a gifted songwriter and producer. In 1962 he teamed with 11-year-old Little Stevie Wonder to author "Fingertips," and a subsequent live recording cut at Detroit's famed Fox Theater launched the prodigy's groundbreaking career. Cosby and Wonder teamed on a number of other hits in the years to follow, often in collaboration with Sylvia Moy. In addition to the aforementioned "Uptight," their credits include "I Was Made to Love Her," "My Cherie Amour," and "Shoo Bee Doo Bee Da Day." Cosby also worked in various capacities with the Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Martha & the Vandellas, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and the Temptations prior to his exit from the offices of Motown in 1973, when the label relocated to Los Angeles. After a series of heart surgeries, he died January 22, 2002 at the age of 73. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide
