Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Sonny Rollins
Jan 21, 2025
Sonny Rollins, one of the last living legends of the Bebop era, shares insights from his remarkable journey as a saxophonist. He reflects on the loss of influential jazz figures and his own spiritual beliefs shaped by a self-imposed musical exile. Discussions touch on pivotal works like 'Freedom Suite' and the intersection of music with social consciousness. The conversation reveals his thoughts on the American dream and its nuances within the jazz community, emphasizing authenticity, competition, and the camaraderie that defines this timeless genre.
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Early Activism
- Sonny Rollins' grandmother, an activist, carried him on marches in Harlem.
- They protested racial segregation at department stores like Bloomberg's.
Du Bois' Influence
- W.E.B. Du Bois advised Black individuals to acknowledge racial issues in their respective fields.
- This inspired Rollins to incorporate Black songs into his jazz records.
Hollywood Influence
- Rollins loved watching Hollywood movies growing up, including those with Louis Armstrong.
- He found no conflict in loving these and also wanting social change.
