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'Saxophone Colossus' Sonny Rollins dies at 95
The tenor saxophonist recorded 60 studio and live albums and won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award after performing into his 80s.
- On Monday, May 25, jazz legend Sonny Rollins died in New York at age 95. He had been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a condition scarring lung tissue and hindering breathing.
- Born in Harlem into a musical family, Rollins received a second-hand alto saxophone at age 11. He later practiced up to 16 hours daily on the Williamsburg Bridge for two years to overcome creative blocks.
- Recording 60 studio and live albums, Rollins produced celebrated works including Saxophone Colossus and Way Out West. He earned a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, cementing his status as a jazz master.
- Living six blocks from the World Trade Center during the terrorist attacks, Rollins linked the 9/11 trauma to his subsequent health decline. He eventually retreated to his home in Woodstock to focus on recovery.
- Influenced by Eastern philosophy, Rollins traveled to India seeking deeper meaning and personal exploration. He once stated, "You are the whole fucking universe," reflecting his philosophical commitment to artistic and spiritual excellence.
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Waterloo Cedar Falls Courier+34 Reposted by 34 other sources
Sonny Rollins knew not to die young
How is it that the "Saxophone Colossus" Sonny Rollins lived to 95? Aren't jazz musicians supposed to die at tragically early ages? Actually, that's a myth that Rollins and others proved flawed.
·Waterloo, United States
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Sonny Rollins (1930-2026): A jazz legend for whom art and life were never different
Lord – use my troubles to bring beautiful harmony to my lifeLord – shine your light on every problem I have and show me its beautyThese are two prayers from the notebook of Walter Theodore “Sonny” Rollins, who passed away on May 25 in his home in Woodstock, New York. He was 95 years old, the last of a generation. He was the final surviving member from A Great Day in Harlem. I hung a copy of this photograph on my wall as a teenager and my eyes of…
·Mumbai, India
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources51
Leaning Left8Leaning Right1Center31Last UpdatedBias Distribution78% Center
Bias Distribution
- 78% of the sources are Center
78% Center
L 20%
C 78%
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