Sonny Rollins Returns | Broken Record

Authenticity

Sonny Rollins reflects on the concept of authenticity in jazz, a theme that has followed him throughout his career. He recounts his initial reluctance to collaborate with the Rolling Stones, viewing it as a potential "comedown" from the higher level of jazz music he was accustomed to 1. Rollins' wife ultimately convinced him to participate, highlighting the tension between commercial success and artistic integrity. He also discusses the perception of jazz as a lesser art form by some, despite its profound impact and the talent of its musicians 2.

I thought that that would be a comedown for me to do that. And I really had to argue with my wife about that.

--- Sonny Rollins

Rollins' reflections underscore the ongoing debate about what constitutes true authenticity in music.

   

Oneness

Rollins believes in music's power to transcend racial and stylistic boundaries, advocating for a universal understanding of music. He recalls Duke Ellington's philosophy that there are only two kinds of music: good and bad, emphasizing the unifying nature of music 3. Rollins' writings from 1959 echo this sentiment, arguing against separating music by race or style, and instead promoting a holistic view of music as a singular, unifying force.

The greatest of any music is of a oneness which transcends period, style, country, etc.

--- Sonny Rollins

His reflections on fellow musicians like Lou Donaldson highlight the human spirit within jazz, suggesting that the genre's longevity is due to the genuine humanity of its practitioners 4.