rollins, sonny

"Based on more than two hundred interviews with Rollins himself, family members, friends, and collaborators, as well as Rollins' extensive personal archive, 'Saxophone Colossus' is the comprehensive portrait of this legendary saxophonist and composer, civil rights activist and environmentalist. The story of Sonny Rollins--innovative, unpredictable, larger than life--is the story of jazz itself, and Sonny's own narrative is as timeless and timely as the art form he represents. Part jazz oral history told in the musicians' own words, part chronicle of one man's quest for social justice and spiritual enlightenment, this is the definitive biography of one of the most enduring and influential artists in jazz and American history"--Provided by publisher.

"Jazz icon Sonny Rollins found an inspired spot to practice his saxophone when his neighbors complained"--.

"Sonny Rollins is one of the most prolific sax players in the history of jazz, but in 1959, at the height of his career, he vanished from the scene. His return to music was an interesting journey - with a long detour on the Williamsburg Bridge. Too loud to practice in his apartment, Rollins played on the New York City landmark for two years among the cacophony of the traffic and the stares of bystanders. Then in 1962, Rollins went back to the studio and recorded arguably his best album to date: 'The Bridge'"--Provided by publisher.