Thank you for this. Dexter Gordon was my introduction to jazz. His recordings inspired me to start playing the saxophone, and to this day he remains my greatest musical hero. To me, he represents the highest level of artistry and sophistication.
My Man Bret, you hit for the cycle with this piece. It is the best sketch of Long Tall Dexter that I can recall ever reading. I have to believe that anyone reading this piece will be motivated to find out more about this giant of the tenor saxophone. The best way to achieve this, of course, is to sit still, turn off your computer/phone, and listen to his recordings with intent! Thank you, Bret.
Love it Bret!!! Dexter Gordon was a One of a Kind Tenor Sax Giant. Our Man in Paris is an Incredible Album, Both in the Album Cover And in the amusic itself, He was Truly an Innovator of The Tenor. Dexter Lives!!!
I love how he didn’t let the other shoe drop at the end of “Second Balcony Jump”. That was his wry personality. Moreover, “Go!” is one of the great classic albums in jazz history.
The harmonic major reference in his playing is what always gets me. Gordon had that rare ability to quote "Laura" or other standards mid-solo without it feeling forced, like he was weaving a second narrative on top of the chord changes. I remember hearing him live once in the late 70s, and the way he lagged behind the beat on ballads made every note feel heavier, more deliberate.
Thank you for this. Dexter Gordon was my introduction to jazz. His recordings inspired me to start playing the saxophone, and to this day he remains my greatest musical hero. To me, he represents the highest level of artistry and sophistication.
My Man Bret, you hit for the cycle with this piece. It is the best sketch of Long Tall Dexter that I can recall ever reading. I have to believe that anyone reading this piece will be motivated to find out more about this giant of the tenor saxophone. The best way to achieve this, of course, is to sit still, turn off your computer/phone, and listen to his recordings with intent! Thank you, Bret.
Love it Bret!!! Dexter Gordon was a One of a Kind Tenor Sax Giant. Our Man in Paris is an Incredible Album, Both in the Album Cover And in the amusic itself, He was Truly an Innovator of The Tenor. Dexter Lives!!!
I love how he didn’t let the other shoe drop at the end of “Second Balcony Jump”. That was his wry personality. Moreover, “Go!” is one of the great classic albums in jazz history.
The harmonic major reference in his playing is what always gets me. Gordon had that rare ability to quote "Laura" or other standards mid-solo without it feeling forced, like he was weaving a second narrative on top of the chord changes. I remember hearing him live once in the late 70s, and the way he lagged behind the beat on ballads made every note feel heavier, more deliberate.
Wow!! Once again, Professor, thank you!
Excellent. Thorough, accurate, embracing.
Thanks Tony. You were so lucky to play with him.
More jazz education from my learned friend. Gracias!
Great article! Love Dexter Gordon!