Wilbert Smith

American saxophonist, songwriter and vocalist. Founding member of Little Richard's backing group [a=The Upsetters (2)]. When Richard denounced rock 'n' roll in 1967 to follow religion, Smith signed on as a member of James Brown's backing band. He had known Brown for many years, having played on his first single 'Please Please Please' and co-written 'Chonnie-On-Chon'.
Smith also released records under the alias Lee Diamond, and used this alias for songwriting purposes, most famously for [m232372]. with [a=George Davis (2)]
A spell in prison curtailed Smith's career but he returned to write and record several more singles on small labels.