Dexter Gordon
Dexter Gordon (February 27, 1923 – April 25, 1990) was an influential American jazz tenor saxophonist, composer, and bandleader, known for his contributions to the bebop, swing, and hard bop genres. Born in Los Angeles, California, Gordon was among the early pioneers of bebop and was affectionately nicknamed "Long Tall Dexter" due to his towering height of 6 feet 6 inches. His style was characterized by a "large" and spacious sound, often playing behind the beat and incorporating musical quotes from diverse sources into his solos, which became a hallmark of his performances.
Gordon's career spanned over four decades, during which he became known for his genial stage presence and his unique ritual of reciting lyrics before playing ballads. He was notably influenced by Lester Young and, in turn, influenced other jazz greats like John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins. His career included significant periods in Europe during the 1960s, followed by a triumphant return to the United States in the 1970s.
In 1986, Gordon starred in the film "Round Midnight," earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and winning a Grammy for the soundtrack album. His 1962 album "Go" was later preserved by the Library of Congress for its cultural significance. Gordon's impact on jazz is further commemorated in the biography "Sophisticated Giant: The Life and Legacy of Dexter Gordon," written by his wife, Maxine Gordon.
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