Prestige Profiles

Coleman Hawkins' Prestige Profiles is a captivating compilation that showcases the legendary jazz musician's incredible talent. Released on 1 January 2004 by Prestige, this 1 hour and 5 minute album is a masterclass in jazz, blending elements of bebop, cool jazz, and hard bop to create a unique sound.

Featuring a range of timeless classics, including 'I'm Beginning To See The Light', 'Greensleeves', and 'Smoke Gets In Your Eyes', Coleman Hawkins' soulful saxophone playing takes centre stage. With tracks like 'Soul Blues' and 'In A Mellow Tone', Hawkins demonstrates his ability to evoke powerful emotions through his music, while 'I'll Get By (As Long As I Have You)' and 'Make Someone Happy' showcase his more upbeat and carefree side.

Throughout the album, Coleman Hawkins' technical skill and expressive playing are on full display, making Prestige Profiles a must-listen for fans of jazz and bebop. With its rich sound and enduring appeal, this collection is a testament to Hawkins' status as one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time.

Coleman Hawkins, affectionately known as "Hawk" or "Bean," was a titan of the tenor saxophone in the world of jazz. Born in 1904, Hawkins was one of the first musicians to elevate the tenor saxophone to a prominent position in jazz, transforming it from a novelty into a cornerstone of the genre. His virtuosic and emotionally rich playing style, characterized by its vibrato and arpeggiated improvisations, influenced a vast array of musicians, from his contemporaries like Chu Berry and Ben Webster to later legends such as John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins.

Hawkins' career spanned several decades and multiple jazz styles, from the big band era of swing to the pioneering days of bebop. His innovative approach to improvisation and his deep musical knowledge made him a consistently modern and influential figure. Whether you're diving into his early recordings or exploring his later works, Coleman Hawkins' music offers a journey through the evolution of jazz, showcasing his enduring mastery and creativity.

Prestige Profiles

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