May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
David “Fathead” Newman, who invented the image of a rough, bluesy Texas tenor player in jazz, died Jan. 20 near his home in Upstate New York following a long battle with cancer. He was 75.
Newman was born in Dallas on Feb. 24, 1933. In his teens he backed saxophonist Red Connors alongside Ornette Coleman. Shortly afterwards he worked in Lowell Fulson and T-Bone Walker’s barnstorming r&b bands. When Walker’s pianist, Ray Charles, left the group, he hired Newman on baritone in 1954. Newman returned to tenor and backed Brother Ray for the next 10 years—creading driving solos on the band’s classic Atlantic recordings. Other r&b stars in the Atlantic roster (notably Aretha Franklin and Dr. John) also relied on Newman’s hearty tone. During the ‘60s and ‘70s, Newman also worked with King Curtis, Herbie Mann and Blue Mitchell. His own Atlantic albums at this time were often comprised of straightforward versions of pop hits. Throughout the years, Newman also played in crowd-pleasing duos with Hank Crawford and Stanley Turrentine. One of Newman’s best traditional jazz performances was his understated role on Junior Mance’s Truckin’ And Trackin’ session in 1983 (Bee Hive). Other dimensions to his work include his sensitive interpretations of Ellington on Mr. Gentle Mr. Cool (Kokopelli).
Recommended recordings: House Of David (Rhino); Still Hard Times (Muse). —Aaron Cohen
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
May 12, 2026 11:42 AM
The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
May 26, 2026 10:40 AM
Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
