(April 25, 1913 – October 28, 1965)
Eugene Earl Bostic, to use his full name, was an alto saxophonist, composer, arranger and songwrite born in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was a flawless technician on his instrument, and deployed this mastery in many different styles throughout his career including in small group swing-based jazz, big band jazz, jump blues, organ-based combos and a string of commercial successes.
Bostic's virtuosity on the alto saxophone was legendary. He was influenced by the Texas Sax Sound of Buster Smith and Lester Young. Like them he used a tenor saxophone reed on his alto mouthpiece. This resistance helped him to develop a four octave range which he could play with immaculate intonation. He could seamlessly move between registers, phrasing melodies uninhibited by range. His range, intonation and ability to articulate his phrases set new technical standards on the saxophone in all style of music.
Bostic was influenced by Sidney Bechet, particularly in the high register of the alto saxophone. His early recorded solos show this influence very clearly. Bostic would continue to develop this influence over his lengthy career to develop the ability to play far higher on the alto saxophone than Bechet could on the soprano.
As a band leader he mentored many great saxophonists, including Benny Carter, John Coltrane, Teddy Edwards, Benny Golson, Stanley Turrentine and Jaki Byard. He was a major influence on a number of other saxophonists, including Charlie Parker.
Bostic's early playing was a big influence on Benny Carter, particularly in the length of his phrases. Bostic's signature growl and blues phrases are a clear influence on the blues playing of Charlie Parker. His strength and variety of articulation was also a massive influence on Parker.
Earl Bostic's technical mastery was a very strong influence on John Coltrane, who studied saxophone with Bostic, as well as playing in his band.
Excellent recorded examples of Bostic's technical mastery and style can be heard on Up There in Orbit, Earl Blows A Fuse and Earl's Imagination.
