Benny Golson, a tenor saxophonist and composer of enduring grace whose profound contributions shaped the landscape of modern jazz for over seven decades, died on Saturday at his home in Manhattan after a short illness. He was 95 years old. His passing marks the end of an extraordinary era, leaving an indelible mark through both his eloquent instrumental voice and a catalog of compositions that became foundational jazz standards.
Mr. Golson was a rare musical polymath, revered as much for his sophisticated playing style as for his genius as a composer. He meticulously crafted pieces like “Killer Joe,” “Along Came Betty,” “I Remember Clifford,” and “Whisper Not,” tunes that not only defined the hard bop movement but also transcended it, becoming part of the universal jazz lexicon. His ability to weave compelling narratives and evoke deep emotion through his melodies set him apart.
His long and storied career saw him collaborate with the giants of his time, transition seamlessly between performing and composing for film and television, and ultimately return to the stage to inspire new generations. This article will embark on a journey through the early chapters of his remarkable life, exploring the roots of his artistry, the pivotal moments that forged his unique sound, and the genesis of his most celebrated works.
1. **Early Life and Philadelphia Roots**Benny Golson’s story began in Philadelphia, where he was born on January 25, 1929, the only child of Celadia, a seamstress, and Bennie Golson, who worked for Nabisco and the Philadelphia Gas Company. His childhood was steeped in a culturally rich, middle-class environment, which provided fertile ground for his burgeoning musical curiosity.
His initial foray into music began at the piano at age nine, but it was the saxophone that truly captivated him by age 14. This shift proved prescient, setting him on a path that would intertwine with an unusually brilliant cadre of local musicians. His peer group in Philadelphia included future jazz luminaries such as John Coltrane, Jimmy and Percy Heath, Red Garland, Philly Joe Jones, and Ray Bryant.
Mr. Golson often recounted how he and John Coltrane, a childhood friend who was two years his senior, would frequently attend North Philly jam sessions together. During these formative years, Golson initially strove to emulate the dynamic sound of Arnett Cobb, particularly Cobb’s solo on Lionel Hampton’s “Flying Home” from a 1943 Earle Theater performance, which he cited as a life-changing moment.
Their musical destinies, like those of many young musicians of their generation, were irrevocably reshaped by the seismic bebop innovations spearheaded by Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. Golson described this period as a challenging yet exhilarating transition: “We were neophytes changing horses in the middle of a stream, trying to play the old music and now, as amateurs, trying to change to the new music. Boy, that was a challenge. But we loved it.”
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2. **The Formative Years at Howard University and Early Band Stints**At his mother’s insistence, Benny Golson pursued higher education, enrolling at Howard University. It was during his time there that he gained his first practical experience as a composer and arranger, honing his craft by writing for an off-campus jazz band. This period was crucial in developing his dual talents, laying the groundwork for his future as both a performer and a meticulous craftsman of musical scores.
After graduating from Howard, Golson embarked on a significant progression through the ranks of high-profile bandleaders, each stint contributing to his development. He joined groups led by Tadd Dameron, whom he would later single out as his greatest compositional influence, absorbing Dameron’s sophisticated harmonic and melodic approaches.
His journey continued with engagements in the bands of Bull Moose Jackson, Lionel Hampton, Earl Bostic, and Dizzy Gillespie. These diverse experiences exposed him to a wide array of musical styles and demands, broadening his instrumental proficiency and deepening his understanding of ensemble dynamics and arrangement, preparing him for the pivotal roles he would soon undertake in the jazz world.
These early professional experiences were not merely stepping stones but integral parts of his artistic formation. They provided a real-world education in bandleading, improvisation, and the intricate art of crafting music that resonated with both musicians and audiences. Each band offered a unique apprenticeship, refining his skills as both a compelling soloist and a thoughtful orchestrator.
3. **The Jazz Messengers Era and Hard Bop Influence**Benny Golson’s tenure with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, though lasting less than a year, proved to be a vital and transformative period in his career and for the evolution of hard bop. During this brief but impactful stint, he found himself alongside several fellow Philadelphians, including Lee Morgan, Bobby Timmons, and Jymie Merritt, contributing to a vibrant collective energy.
This era culminated in the release of the celebrated 1958 Blue Note album “Moanin’,” a landmark recording that showcased Golson’s burgeoning compositional prowess. He either wrote or co-wrote four of the six tracks on the album, profoundly shaping its sound and solidifying its place as a quintessential hard bop recording.
Among his pivotal contributions to “Moanin’” were compositions that would swiftly become jazz standards: “Along Came Betty,” “Blues March,” and “Are You Real.” These tunes were characterized by their memorable melodies, driving rhythms, and sophisticated harmonic structures, perfectly embodying the energetic, soulful, and often blues-inflected aesthetic of hard bop.
His work with the Jazz Messengers played an integral role in the transition from bebop to hard bop, infusing the genre with a new level of compositional sophistication. The compositions he penned for Blakey’s ensemble demonstrated a refined polish that balanced technical brilliance with an undeniable emotional depth, defining a sound that was both intellectually engaging and deeply accessible.
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4. **Co-Founding The Jazztet (First Incarnation)**In 1959, propelled by a desire to explore his own musical vision more fully, Benny Golson conceived the idea of forming a working sextet. He reached out to trumpeter Art Farmer, who, it turned out, had been contemplating similar plans. This serendipitous alignment led to the birth of The Jazztet, a groundbreaking ensemble that would become a cornerstone of the hard bop movement.
The new band’s 1960 debut, “Meet the Jazztet,” immediately garnered critical acclaim and featured a formidable initial lineup that included trombonist Curtis Fuller and a prodigious young pianist named McCoy Tyner, who would famously leave after just six months to join John Coltrane’s quartet. The Jazztet’s distinctive sound combined Golson’s sophisticated arrangements with Farmer’s lyrical trumpet, creating a rich texture that was both harmonically intricate and melodically engaging.
The ensemble’s inaugural run at The Five Spot in Greenwich Village, in 1959, was a co-bill with free-jazz trailblazer Ornette Coleman, whose East Coast premiere was a cause célèbre in the jazz world. This juxtaposition highlighted the Jazztet’s more structured yet equally innovative approach to modern jazz, though Golson himself remained less than impressed by the avant-garde aesthetic at the time.
This first incarnation of The Jazztet cemented Golson’s reputation not only as a formidable saxophonist but also as a visionary bandleader and composer. The band offered a platform for his expansive compositional ideas, allowing him to explore narrative storytelling and defined character through his music, leaving an indelible mark on the jazz landscape before its initial disbandment in 1962.
5. **The Birth of Standards: “I Remember Clifford”**Among the many compositions that define Benny Golson’s extraordinary legacy, “I Remember Clifford” stands as one of his most poignant and enduring creations. Penned in 1956, it was a heartfelt tribute to the brilliant trumpeter Clifford Brown, who had tragically died in a car crash at the young age of 25. The personal connection between Golson and Brown lent the piece an unparalleled depth of emotion and sincerity.
Golson’s inspiration stemmed from a deep respect and friendship with Brown, making the composition more than just a musical elegy. It became a powerful expression of grief and remembrance, channeling the collective sorrow of the jazz community while celebrating Brown’s vibrant, brief life. The tune’s tender melody and sophisticated chord changes quickly resonated with musicians and audiences worldwide.
“I Remember Clifford” rapidly ascended to the status of a bona fide jazz standard, recorded by countless artists across generations. Its widespread adoption underscored Golson’s unique ability to compose pieces that were both structurally complex and profoundly moving, ensuring that Clifford Brown’s musical spirit would continue to live on through Golson’s graceful elegy.
The enduring power of this composition lies in its ability to evoke a sense of wistful beauty and profound respect, without succumbing to sentimentality. It showcases Golson’s compositional brilliance in crafting a melody that is instantly recognizable and emotionally resonant, a testament to his understanding of the human heart expressed through the language of jazz.
6. **Other Enduring Compositions: “Whisper Not” and “Stablemates”**Beyond “I Remember Clifford,” Benny Golson gifted the jazz world with a plethora of other compositions that swiftly earned their place in the standard repertoire. Among these, “Whisper Not” stands out as a sophisticated and endlessly intriguing piece. Its distinctive melody and intricate harmonic progression became a favorite for improvisers and a staple for jazz ensembles globally.
“Whisper Not” exemplifies Golson’s skill in crafting tunes that are both challenging for musicians to interpret and deeply rewarding for listeners. The piece’s elegant construction and melodic charm allowed it to transcend specific subgenres, cementing its status as a timeless composition that continues to be performed and recorded by artists across the jazz spectrum.
Another significant contribution is “Stablemates,” a tune born from a casual yet impactful suggestion from his close friend, John Coltrane. Coltrane had mentioned that Miles Davis was actively seeking new material, prompting Golson to pen this composition. Davis himself would later record “Stablemates,” further elevating its profile and solidifying its place in the modern jazz canon.
These compositions, like many of Golson’s works, highlight his unwavering “love affair with melodies.” He believed passionately in crafting music with “meaningful melodic content, something you come away humming,” a philosophy that shaped his entire approach to writing and distinguished his output from contemporaries who might prioritize technical virtuosity over tunefulness.
7. **Golson’s Distinctive Tenor Sound and Philosophical Approach to Melody**As a saxophonist, Benny Golson cultivated a distinctive sound that resonated with a big tone and a sophisticated elegance, deeply rooted in the traditions of earlier masters like Coleman Hawkins. His playing style seamlessly blended refined bebop lines with the driving energy characteristic of the hard bop era, demonstrating a remarkable versatility and evolution throughout his career.
Trumpeter Eddie Henderson, a member of one of Golson’s later bands, eloquently captured this essence, stating, “His signature sound was undeniable: he could play one note and you knew it was Benny Golson. That’s the mark of a true artist.” This singular identity on his instrument was a testament to his meticulous practice, his deep musical intelligence, and his unwavering commitment to his artistic voice.
Mr. Golson often expressed a clear philosophical stance on the importance of melody in his music, prioritizing it over mere technical display. “Athleticism doesn’t really mean anything. It shows that you can do calisthenics, but nobody can hum any of that stuff. I’m from the old school, I guess,” he reflected, emphasizing his desire for music that was both emotionally resonant and memorable.
He steadfastly maintained that his music should always, at its core, possess meaningful melodic content. This dedication to crafting hummable tunes was a cornerstone of his artistic credo, distinguishing his work from more abstract or purely virtuosic approaches. His voice on the tenor saxophone, much like his compositions, reflected this deep-seated sophistication, always maintaining a balance between intellectual rigor and heartfelt expression.
His playing, characterized by its precision, polish, and expressive depth, was an extension of his compositional mind. Whether performing his own intricate works or interpreting those of others, Golson’s tenor saxophone always spoke with an authoritative yet graceful voice, leaving an enduring impression on listeners and fellow musicians alike. His contributions as a player were as significant as his legacy as a composer, a true testament to his multifaceted genius.
8. **The Enduring Power of “Killer Joe” and Other Standards**Benny Golson’s prolific compositional gift extended beyond “I Remember Clifford” and “Whisper Not.” He consistently supplied the jazz world with vibrant, hummable tunes that became immediate standards. “Killer Joe” stands out as arguably his most universally recognizable and commercially successful piece, a testament to his ability to blend catchy rhythm with compelling harmonic structure.
First recorded in 1960 by his Jazztet, “Killer Joe” swiftly captured public imagination. Its infectious groove and memorable theme led it to become a crossover hit, cementing its place in popular culture. The composition epitomizes Golson’s philosophy of creating music that resonated deeply with listeners, something they could “come away humming.” Its accessibility and undeniable jazz sensibility made it a perennial favorite for musicians and audiences alike.
While “Along Came Betty” and “Blues March” were crucial contributions to Art Blakey’s “Moanin’” album, their enduring impact also warrants appreciation. These pieces, along with “Are You Real,” defined the hard bop sound, characterized by soulful vitality and engaging melodic lines. Golson’s unique ability to infuse these tracks with intellectual rigor and emotional warmth propelled them into the standard repertoire, showcasing his rare skill. The consistent quality of his compositions underscores his irreplaceable role in expanding the jazz lexicon, ensuring the timelessness of his creations.
9. **The Hollywood Hiatus and Its Challenges**While Benny Golson’s Hollywood foray proved successful for career diversification, it came at a significant cost within the jazz community. For over a decade, he largely disappeared from the performing jazz world, a self-imposed hiatus. This conscious choice aimed to recognize his broader compositional abilities in Hollywood, rather than solely as a jazz saxophonist.
Golson reflected, “I didn’t want to be viewed as a jazz musician [in Hollywood]. I wanted to do comedy and drama, not just ‘hip jazz things.’” This deliberate distancing meant he turned down jazz gigs, believing it necessary to embrace his new path. Consequently, his “bridges were burned out of existence,” making any potential return daunting.
The decision also impacted his instrumental proficiency. When he eventually contemplated a return, the challenge was immense, which he described as “like getting over a stroke.” It took “ten years to feel comfortable again” on his instrument, a period of profound effort to regain his previous mastery. This hiatus, while isolating him from jazz roots, ultimately broadened his artistic scope, informing his subsequent return with renewed purpose and deeper experience despite the personal and professional costs.
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10. **The Triumphant Return to the Jazz Stage**Despite challenges from his absence, Benny Golson felt an irresistible pull back to live jazz performance. By the mid-1970s, after over a dozen years in Hollywood scoring, the urge to play saxophone became too strong. This yearning marked the beginning of his triumphant, though arduous, return to the jazz stage, where he would again become a prominent figure.
The re-entry was neither immediate nor effortless. Golson candidly admitted it took him “ten years to feel comfortable again” on his instrument. This period required intense practice and self-reassessment, as he diligently reconnected with his saxophone and rediscovered his unique improvisational voice. It was a testament to his unwavering commitment and deep passion for jazz.
His return also involved re-establishing connections within the jazz community. The jazz world had evolved, presenting new contexts. Yet, Golson’s fundamental artistry—his big tone, sophisticated lines, and profound melodic sense—remained a timeless foundation upon which he could reconstruct his performing career. His re-emergence signaled a powerful testament to the enduring allure of improvisation and the call of the stage. This second act proved as impactful as his initial rise, demonstrating rare resilience and an enduring artistic spirit.
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11. **The Jazztet’s Resurgence: Second and Third Incarnations**A pivotal moment in Benny Golson’s re-established career came in 1982 when he reunited with trumpeter Art Farmer to relaunch The Jazztet. This reformation signaled a revival of one of hard bop’s influential ensembles. The chemistry between Golson and Farmer, which defined the original group, rekindled, allowing them to explore new musical dimensions while honoring their groundbreaking work.
The reformed Jazztet, often featuring trombonist Curtis Fuller, embarked on a series of albums through the 1980s that resonated with the burgeoning “Young Lions” movement. This generation looked to classic forms for inspiration, and The Jazztet provided a powerful living example of sophisticated hard bop. Their collaborations showcased Golson’s timeless compositions alongside fresh material, proving the enduring vitality of their sound to a new era.
Following Art Farmer’s passing in 1999, Golson assembled a third iteration: The New’tet. This ensemble featured exceptional musicians, including Eddie Henderson, Steve Davis, and Golson’s trusted rhythm section of Mike LeDonne, Buster Williams, and Carl Allen. This lineup continued to tour and record, ensuring The Jazztet’s legacy, under Golson’s guidance, persisted into the 21st century. As Terell Stafford aptly stated, Golson’s resurgence, in various forms, served as a vital educational and inspirational force.
12. **Golson’s Enduring Artistic Philosophy and Views on Evolution**Benny Golson’s musical journey was deeply informed by a steadfast artistic philosophy, particularly concerning melody and musical evolution. He maintained an unwavering “love affair with melodies,” prioritizing “meaningful melodic content, something you come away humming.” This core belief distinguished his approach, setting him apart from trends favoring abstract improvisation or purely virtuosic display.
His perspective often led him to a cautious stance on certain jazz developments, particularly the avant-garde. While acknowledging the impulse for change, Golson expressed skepticism about whether all change equated to improvement. “We intuitively think that change means for the better,” he remarked. “But sometimes things change and they’re not as good as the things that they evolve from.” This critique underscored his commitment to an aesthetic of clarity and emotional resonance.
Golson believed true artistic merit lay in crafting music that connected on a fundamental level, beyond intellectual appreciation. He famously asserted that “athleticism doesn’t really mean anything. It shows that you can do calisthenics, but nobody can hum any of that stuff. I’m from the old school, I guess.” This was not a dismissal of technical skill, but a reassertion of melody’s primacy for musical expression and memory. His playing, balancing intellectual rigor and heartfelt expression, always remained engaging and accessible, cementing his artistic integrity.
13. **A Cinematic Moment: “The Terminal” Cameo**In an unexpected and heartwarming turn, Benny Golson graced the silver screen, making a memorable cameo in Steven Spielberg’s 2004 film, “The Terminal.” Playing himself, this role brought his legendary status to a global audience beyond traditional jazz fans. The film’s plot ingeniously wove Golson’s musical legacy into its narrative, centering on Viktor Navorski (Tom Hanks) and his heartfelt mission.
Navorski’s poignant quest: to obtain Golson’s autograph, the final signature needed for his late father’s cherished collection of all 58 jazz musicians from Art Kane’s iconic 1958 photograph, “A Great Day in Harlem.” This narrative device celebrated Golson’s artistry and paid homage to a pivotal moment in jazz history, making him a tangible link to legendary musical giants.
The moment of their meeting is imbued with warmth and significance. Navorski, with earnest reverence, addresses Golson, who responds, “Oh, a jazz fan. Fantastic.” This encapsulates Golson’s humility and deep appreciation for his audience. The interaction brought a genuine jazz legend to a mainstream film, highlighting the universal appeal of his music. It served as a powerful testament to Golson’s enduring influence, reaching an even broader audience.
Benny Golson peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at his home in Manhattan, after a short illness, at 95. His passing marked the end of an era, but his music and spirit resonate. His compositions, infused with “meaningful melodic content,” will ensure his voice echoes eternally through jazz history, continuing to inspire and uplift listeners for generations to come, a true titan whose melody remains.
