Sonny Rollins, Giant of the Jazz Saxophone, Is Dead at 95
The New York Times • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Sonny Rollins, a dominant post-World War II jazz tenor saxophonist known for his forceful and imaginative style, died at his home in Woodstock, N.Y., at the age of 95.
- Rollins distinguished himself with a fat, full-bodied saxophone sound reminiscent of Coleman Hawkins, contrasting with the lighter tones favored by peers in the late 1940s.
- In the late 1950s, despite rising success as a bandleader, Rollins took a hiatus of over two years to improve the quality of his playing, demonstrating his commitment to artistic excellence.
- While influenced by bebop’s harmonic and rhythmic innovations, Rollins’ style transcended simple classification, reflecting a unique and individual approach to jazz.