Paul Gonsalves

Paul Gonsalves, born in Brockton, Massachusetts, in 1920, was a tenor saxophonist whose name is synonymous with some of the most electrifying moments in jazz history. Gonsalves is best known for his tenure with Duke Ellington, where he delivered a legendary 27-chorus solo during the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival, a performance that revitalized Ellington's career and solidified Gonsalves' status as a jazz icon. His emotive and high-energy playing style, honed through his experiences with bands led by Count Basie and Dizzy Gillespie, made him a standout soloist and a favorite of Ellington's. Gonsalves' contributions to Ellington's suites and his prolific recordings as a soloist and bandleader showcase his versatility and influence across jazz genres, from cool jazz to hard bop. His personal style on the tenor saxophone is instantly recognizable, making him a beloved figure in the jazz world.