Dexter Gordon: A Musical Biography

by Stan Britt

Described by Leonard Feather as "one of the most influential saxophonists of the bop era," Dexter Gordon has been a recognized master for over four decades. This new biography traces his career from his early stints with Lionel Hampton and Louis Armstrong, through his time with the bop big band of Billy Eckstine and his sparring partnership with fellow tenor-player Wardell Gray in Los Angeles, to his self-exile in Denmark, and his triumphant return to New York in 1976, an event that decisively shaped the still strong bebop revival. Stan Britt devotes chapters to Gordon's acclaimed performance in the movie 'Round Midnight, for which he received an Academy Award nomination, along with extended discussions of his recording legacy and an analysis of his unmistakable tenor sound and style. With a notated discography and a keen appreciation of Dexter's warm, ironic personality, this biography adds another dimension to our understanding of one of the coolest—and tallest—figures of jazz.

Genres: Music, Biography

215 pages, Paperback

First published August 21, 1989

Reviews

[Phillip · Rating 3 out of 5]

wasn't crazy about this book - i didn't really like the author's voice, and some of his research seemed solid, some not. the central avenue scene, for example, is passed over without a lot of attention to the great innovations that came out of that scene.

you can tell that mr. britt has conservative tastes, he seems much more able to rave about louis armstrong than this "modern" saxophonist.

whatevers!

i love dexter and am glad i read the book - got some good info on one of my favorite tenor players ... just wished for a lot more than i got.

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three stars for enthusiasm. Unfortunately Stan’s a lousy storyteller, he lacks nuance, and he desperately needs an editor. Hoping Maxine’s book turns out to be the one Dexter deserves.