The Saxophone Colossus: A Tribute to Sonny Rollins
Updated: Aug 4
I feel blessed to have witnessed Sonny Rollins in concert on so many special occasions. There was his solo sax performance at the Museum of Modern Art on July 19, 1985. He strolled through the sculpture garden outdoors, occasionally catching the pitch of a passing ambulance or cop car. Instantly, he doubled it and harmonized with it. It was the single greatest act of pure improvisational genius that I had ever witnessed up to that time.
A Joyful Calypso Moment
A month later, at the Chicago Jazz Festival on August 28, 1985, he performed at the Petrillo Bandshell in Grant Park. Even the most curmudgeonly jazz critics in the press section found themselves dancing to his joyful calypso set-closer, “Don’t Stop the Carnival.” It was a moment of pure joy, a reminder of the power of music to uplift and connect us all.
Celebrating Milestones
There was his memorable performance at Tramps on April 12, 1997. Then, on September 10, 2010, I attended his unforgettable 80th birthday celebration at the Beacon Theater. He was joined by special guest Ornette Coleman for a bluesy and swinging rendition of “Sonnymoon for Two.” Backed by Christian McBride and Roy Haynes, they ventured into more avant-garde territory halfway through the marathon 21-minute version. It was fascinating to see how much Ornette's playing influenced Sonny, opening him up during that extended jam.
A Heartfelt Farewell
Perhaps most moving was Sonny’s appearance at the Ornette Coleman Tribute at the Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn on June 12, 2014. Although Sonny couldn’t play anymore, he opened the all-star concert with heartfelt words, paying respect to his peer. “I’m going to say something that Ornette already said to me: It’s all good. Don’t worry about anything. We might not see it right now, but it’s all good.”
It’s a beautiful sentiment, one that resonates deeply. It reminds us that music and life, despite their challenges, can be a source of joy and connection.
R.I.P., Mr. Rollins. Your legacy will continue to inspire us all.
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