Jul 22, 2026 12:37 PM
In Memoriam: Rodney Holmes, 1966–2026
Drummer Rodney Holmes, a powerful presence behind the kit who emerged as an in-demand player on the New York scene…
Pianist Mal Waldron, who built an impressive career working with a wide range of jazz artists from Billie Holiday, John Coltrane, Max Roach and Steve Lacy, died Dec. 2 in Brussels, Belgium. He was 76.
Born in New York City on Aug. 16, 1926, Waldron received a Bachelor’s degree in music and composition for ballet en route to a series of sideman gigs. Early work opportunities included time with Ike Quebec, Della Reese, Big Nick Nicholas and a number of r&b bands. Two of Waldron’s best early high-profile gigs in jazz came working for Charles Mingus from 1954-‘56 (he would work with the bassist again), and later with Billie Holiday from 1957-‘59. In addition, Waldron was known for recording dates where he supplied all the written material to be recorded. Starting in 1960, he became a leader of his own bands, and was John Coltrane’s pianist briefly after the saxophonist departed Miles Davis’ band. Waldron’s writing credits also include work for film scores and stage background music. Some of his work took him to Europe, where in 1965 he did some writing for film and decided to move there. He continued to record and tour internationally, playing with the likes of Steve Lavy and Oliver Lake.
Recordings include Moods (includes longtime collaborator Steve Lacy, enja, 1978); The Quest (OJC, 1961). As a sideman: At The Five Spot Vol. 1 (with Eric Dolphy, Booker Little, OJC, 1961).
A drummer’s drummer, Rodney Holmes gigged with everyone from Joe Zawinul and Carlos Santana to Steve Kimock and the Brecker Brothers.
Jul 22, 2026 12:37 PM
Drummer Rodney Holmes, a powerful presence behind the kit who emerged as an in-demand player on the New York scene…
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