Jazz saxophone colossus Sonny Rollins dies at 95
Sonny Rollins, known as the 'saxophone colossus,' sadly passed away at his home in Woodstock, New York, on Monday afternoon, as his publicist confirmed. He was regarded as one of the most significant and celebrated figures in American music, though the cause of his death is still unknown. Starting his career in the late 1940s, Rollins collaborated with jazz legends like Miles Davis and John Coltrane, producing over 60 albums. He won two Grammy Awards before stepping back in 2014 due to health issues. His famous 1956 album, 'Saxophone Colossus,' and his iconic practice sessions on Williamsburg Bridge in the early 60s inspired his album 'The Bridge.' He once expressed a profound connection to the saxophone, stating that creativity transcends existence.
Key facts
- Sonny Rollins died aged 95 at his home in Woodstock, New York, on Monday afternoon.
- His publicist called him 'one of the most honored and influential figures in American music.'
- No cause of death was given.
- Rollins began his career in the late 1940s and worked with Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, and John Coltrane.
- He released more than 60 albums as a bandleader and won two Grammys.
- Respiratory illness forced his retirement in 2014.
- His 1956 album 'Saxophone Colossus' is among his best-known works.
- He practiced on New York's Williamsburg Bridge, leading to the 1962 album 'The Bridge.'
Entities
Artists
- Sonny Rollins
- Miles Davis
- Charlie Parker
- John Coltrane
- Thelonious Monk
- Art Blakey
- Bud Powell
- Coleman Hawkins
Institutions
- BBC
- PBS
- Jazz Times
Locations
- Woodstock
- New York
- United States
- Williamsburg Bridge