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Miles Davis and John Coltrane: Reaching the Masses with 'Round About Midnight

other · 2026-08-19

Part three of the 'Davis and Coltrane, centenaries of legend' series explores the 1957 recording of ''Round About Midnight'. At that time, trumpeter Miles Davis achieved his objective of reaching a broad audience, notwithstanding the ensemble's chaotic existence, which persisted even after saxophonist John Coltrane arrived. The installment describes the birth of a major jazz quintet, tracing how the group came together despite instability. The six-part series commemorates the centenaries of both musicians, with this episode focusing on a key moment in their shared legacy.

Key facts

  • Miles Davis recorded 'Round About Midnight in 1957.
  • The recording was intended to reach a broad public.
  • Davis achieved his goal of touching a wide audience.
  • The orchestra's existence was chaotic.
  • The chaos continued even after John Coltrane's arrival.
  • The article is the third installment of a six-part series.
  • The series is called 'Davis and Coltrane, centenaries of legend'.
  • The article covers the birth of a great jazz quintet.

Entities

Artists

  • Miles Davis
  • John Coltrane

Sources