From what some were calling at the time "one of a kind experimental jazz" and others just heard as "cacophony" of his late 1960s early 1970s ventures with his Liberation Orchestra, to the simplicity of the spirituals he recorded with the equally inimitable Hank Jones in the 1990s, and his later return to his folk and country roots, as well as other adventures in music, that made him a master bassist period, not just a master jazz bassist, Charlie Haden was always a gift to those of us who listened.
My heart goes out to his talented children and all his family and friends and fans. He will be missed, but his music will live on. Here's one example, a recording that when I first played it for my bassist oldest son, Miles, brought both of us to tears, moved not only by the spirit embodied in the music, but almost overwhelmed by the distilled musical genius in the purity of both Haden's and Jones's playing:
4 comments:
Michael, you beautiful poet man, I thank you for this moving tribute to a brilliant artist, one whose art sustained the soul and will continue to do so until the end of time or the last string has finally vibrated its last and quietly snapped... whichever happens first.
Thanks Tom, you beautiful poet man, and for your blog that constantly amazes and informs...
Dad, thanks for the fitting tribute to a tremendously unique musical force. The song brought me to tears again; great choice that highlights Haden's supremely lyrical style. Sad news for those left behind, but at least we have his transcendent music.
Amen, Miles.
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