Sonny Rollins, colossus of jazz saxophone, dies aged 95
Sonny Rollins, the renowned jazz saxophonist, has passed away at the age of 95. His death was confirmed by his publicist and announced on his website, although no cause was provided. Rollins was celebrated for his innovative contributions to jazz and collaborated with many legendary musicians throughout his career.
- ▪Sonny Rollins was one of the last stars of the bebop generation and released over 60 albums.
- ▪He was born Walter Theodore Rollins in New York City in 1930 and began learning the saxophone at the age of seven.
- ▪Rollins faced personal struggles, including a battle with heroin addiction, but achieved significant creative success after overcoming these challenges.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Sonny Rollins, the hugely influential jazz saxophonist who has died aged 95. Photograph: Eamonn McCabe/The GuardianView image in fullscreenSonny Rollins, the hugely influential jazz saxophonist who has died aged 95. Photograph: Eamonn McCabe/The GuardianSonny RollinsSonny Rollins, colossus of jazz saxophone, dies aged 95One of the last stars of the bebop generation, Rollins was an genius of melodic invention and improvisation, working with Davis, Monk, Coltrane and othersBen Beaumont-ThomasMon 25 May 2026 22.01 EDTLast modified on Mon 25 May 2026 22.09 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleSonny Rollins, one of the greatest jazz saxophonists of all time, has died aged 95.His death was announced on his website on Monday night, “with deep sorrow and profound love”.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at World news | The Guardian.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from World news | The Guardian
