The American tenor saxophonist and composer ‘saxophone colossus’ Sonny Rollins has passed away at the age of 95. Rollins is considered to be one of the most influential saxophonists in jazz history. He helped shape the sound of modern jazz through groundbreaking improvisation and an untiring pursuit of artistic development.
Rollins played the saxophone from an early age. He began on the alto saxophone, following the example of early greats such as Louis Jordan. He switched to the tenor sax after hearing Coleman Hawkins. Subsequently, he became captivated by Charlie Parker and found his mentor in pianist Thelonious Monk. He played with the biggest names in jazz, including Miles Davis and John Coltrane, and became a key figure in bebop and hard bop.
In the 1950s, he broke through with albums such as Saxophone Colossus and Freedom Suite, in which he introduced major innovations in improvisation and jazz forms. His playing is known for melodic freedom, creativity and long, narrative solos. Miles Davis loved playing with him: “He was an aggressive, innovative player who always had fresh musical ideas.”
Rollins is famous for his drive to innovate and improve his playing. In 1959, he took a three-year break to practice his playing for up to 15 hours a day. He did this on the Williamsburg Bridge – so as not to disturb his neighbours. The album Bridge was the outcome of this period.
Rollins remained active well into old age and was recognized worldwide as one of the greatest improvisers in jazz history, with a career centered on constant innovation and personal discipline.
Rollins was a much loved musician at the Concertzender – World of Jazz. For example, listen to the following broadcasts:
Concertzender Live, a recording of a Rollins’ concert in 1967 in Nederland.
House of Hard Bop, showcasing Rollins as a composer of music for films.
The Palace of Nostalgia is just one of many programmes with Rollins in the playlists.
