Sonny Rollins

Sonny Rollins (born December 7, 1930, New York City) is an American tenor saxophonist and a major figure in postwar jazz. Active since the 1940s, he is celebrated for his improvisational invention, powerful tone and landmark recordings from the 1950s onward.

Noted albums include Saxophone Colossus (1956), Way Out West (1957) and The Bridge (1962). He famously practiced on the Williamsburg Bridge during a sabbatical. Collaborators mentioned in reviews include Jim Hall, Max Roach, Tommy Flanagan, Doug Watkins, Ray Brown, Shelly Manne, Bob Cranshaw and Ben Riley. The Solo Album documents a lengthy solo performance at MoMA (1985).

DeBaser reviews praise Rollins's technical mastery, inventive improvisation and tonal clarity. Key records discussed are Saxophone Colossus, Way Out West, The Bridge and a solo concert captured on The Solo Album. Reviewers highlight fruitful collaborations (Jim Hall, Ray Brown, Shelly Manne, Max Roach) and the famous Williamsburg Bridge practice sabbatical.

For:jazz fans, saxophonists, music students and curious listeners