John Coltrane

John William Coltrane (September 23, 1926 – July 17, 1967) was an American jazz saxophonist and composer.

Legacy

Today, most casual jazz listeners (and some self-described "traditionalist" musicians like Wynton Marsalis) consider late-period Coltrane unlistenable. However many recordings — among them Ascension, Meditations and the posthumous Interstellar Space — are widely considered masterpieces. Many of Coltrane's innovations would be incorporated into the jazz fusion movement, however with diminishing returns of spiritual fervency and earnestness. Also more mainstream rock guitarists like Jimi Hendrix would seize upon Coltrane's work as inspiration in addition to American Blues music.

Related Topics:
Wynton Marsalis - Jazz fusion - Jimi Hendrix - Blues

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Coltrane's massive influence on jazz, both mainstream and avant-garde, began during his lifetime and continued to grow after his death. He is one of the most dominant influences on post-1960 jazz saxophonists.

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Coltrane was an important pioneer in unaccompanied playing for saxophone and drums, first with Elvin Jones and then with Rashied Ali.

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Coltrane's son, Ravi Coltrane, has followed in his father's steps and became a saxophonist. His widow, Alice Coltrane recently returned to music after several decades of retirement.

Related Topics:
Ravi Coltrane - Alice Coltrane

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