Coltrane

John Coltrane was born September 23,1926 in Hamlet, NC. His father played several instruments, thus sparking John’s early interest in music. John continued his studies of music in Philadelphia and at Ornstein School of Music. He later served in the Navy during WWII and performed with the US Navy Band in Hawaii. He began playing tenor sax after the war with the Eddie Vinson Band. He also played with the Dizzy Gillespie Band, but it was his work with Miles Davis that lead to his own musical sound.

John later formed his own quartet. The John Coltrane Quartet had several hit albums including, “My Favorite Things,” “African Brass,” “Impressions,” “Giant Steps,” and his most well known album “A Love Supreme.” Coltrane referred to his work as a religious experience. In 1967 Coltrane died from liver disease. His work however continues to live on.

In 1997 Coltrane posthumously received the RIAA’s highest honor of the lifetime achievement award. His music has been used in numerous movies including: “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” “The General’s Daughter,” Malcom X,” “Mo Better Blues,” and “Jerry McGuire.” His work has also been used in television shows such as: “NYPD Blue,” “The Cosby Show,” “Days Of Our Lives,” “Crime Stories,” and “ER.”

"John Coltrane.com". The John and Alice Coltrane Foundation. 1/31/2010 .