Lou Donaldson, Iconic Jazz Alto Saxophonist, Passes Away at 98
Lou Donaldson, a revered alto saxophonist who became a cornerstone of the jazz landscape, passed away on Saturday at the age of 98. His family announced the news, though they did not disclose the location of his passing.
As a prominent figure on the Blue Note record label during its peak influence, Mr. Donaldson’s contributions to music were prolific, with recordings spanning from 1952 onward as both a bandleader and a sideman. He was a key proponent of the hard bop style, which emerged as an evolution from the bebop revolution, drawing inspiration from the legendary alto saxophonist Charlie Parker. In recognition of his immense contributions to jazz, the National Endowment for the Arts honored Mr. Donaldson with the title of Jazz Master in 2012.
Known affectionately as “Sweet Poppa Lou,” Mr. Donaldson was celebrated for his impeccable technique, rich tone, and refined taste. However, he also embraced the raw, emotional essence of Black church music and the earthy sounds of rhythm and blues in his improvisations. The blues were central to his artistry; his 1958 album, Blues Walk, is heralded as a jazz masterpiece, and its titular track, composed by him, has become a jazz standard cherished by musicians and enthusiasts alike.
In addition to his musical prowess, Mr. Donaldson had an eye for talent, serving as a vital scout for Blue Note’s founders, Alfred Lion and Francis Wolff. He played a crucial role in introducing the young trumpet sensation Clifford Brown to the label and later recognized the brilliance of the young guitar prodigy Grant Green. Reflecting on his impact, he recounted in his unpublished autobiography, A Wonderful Life, “I went down to Alfred Lion at Blue Note and gave him Clifford’s number. He brought him to New York and we made this tremendous date — tremendous date.”
Moreover, Mr. Donaldson championed his close friend Horace Silver, the pianist and composer who would come to embody the essence of the Blue Note sound, encouraging Lion to grant Silver his first recording date as a leader.
