Jazz legend Sonny Rollins, 'Saxophone Colossus,' dies at 95

Quick summary

Tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins, known as the 'Saxophone Colossus,' died Monday at 95 at his home in upstate New York. Rollins reshaped modern jazz over a decades-long career and is regarded as one of the instrument's all-time greats.

Why it matters

Sonny Rollins was a foundational figure in modern jazz whose influence shaped how generations of musicians approached improvisation and the tenor saxophone. His death marks the passing of one of jazz's defining artists and may prompt retrospectives on his legacy and influence on contemporary music.

Key takeaways

• ›Sonny Rollins died Monday at age 95 at his upstate New York home.
• ›He earned the nickname 'Saxophone Colossus' from his landmark 1956 album of the same name.
• ›Rollins built a career spanning decades as one of modern jazz's most innovative improvisers.
• ›He is widely regarded as one of the greatest tenor saxophonists and most influential figures in jazz history.