With The Red Garland Trio

Coleman Hawkins, affectionately known as "Hawk," was a pioneering American jazz tenor saxophonist whose influence on the instrument is immeasurable. Born Coleman Randolph Hawkins, he began his musical journey on the piano at the age of five, later switching to the cello and finally settling on the tenor saxophone at nine. Hawkins' virtuosic, arpeggiated improvisational style and rich, emotional tone set a new standard for the tenor saxophone, inspiring generations of musicians. His career spanned from the swing era of the 1930s through the development of bebop in the 1940s, and he continued to evolve, exploring cool jazz and hard bop. Hawkins' recordings from 1929 to the late 1930s chart the course of his innovative approach, showcasing his mastery and his role in establishing the tenor saxophone as a key instrument in modern jazz. His legacy endures, making him a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast.