For those who have not read this book or are not familiar with the works of A.B.
A must-have book for any jazz library.
This book is a great resource for someone looking for words to match the music of such greats as Ornette Coleman. Not only does it look at the lives and developments of these people as musicians, but also at the constant struggles such artists faced (still face?
Insane that it took me this long to get to reading this book. The version I read was called "Black Music, four lives" which is a terrible title compared to this original.
For a jazz fan, a must. For anyone else, some fascinating insights into jazz musicians.
Published in 1966, this book shows us how the lives and artistic fates of four influential musicians were affected by the atmosphere, business practices and prejudices of the jazz world during the late '40's and '50's: 1) the uncompromising classically-trained composer Cecil Taylor, 2) the innovative romantic artist Ornette Coleman, 3) the professional stalwart turned innovator, Jackie Taylor, and 4) Herbie Nichols.
A.
