(born November 1, 1926)
Lou Donaldson is an alto saxophonist, now retired. He is one of the most prolifically recorded alto saxophonists.
Donaldson was born in Badin, North Carolina. His early jazz recording experience came with Milt Jackson and Thelonious Monk in 1952, as well as Blue Mitchell, Horace Silver, Art Blakey, Clifford Brown, and Philly Joe Jones.
Lou Donaldson was a member of Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers for the era-defining recording sessions at Birdland on February 21, 1954. This recording defined the early hard bop style, and features Donaldson in full flight. These recordings would go on to be released by Blue Note records as A Night at Birdland, Volume 1 and Volume 2.
Lou Donaldson was heavily influenced by Charlie Parker in his early years. Like Sonnys Stitt and Criss, Parker's influence came through Donaldson with longer, more flowing lines than Parker played himself. He developed a stronger blues vein in his playing that he may well have acquired from Johnny Hodges. Over the years his playing style evolved through his own personal experience. His soulful style became increasingly refined over the years, separating his own personal style from the early influence of Parker. Lou Donaldson has remained a huge influence on alto saxophonists over a 67 year career, both through his recordings and through his teachings.
In 2012 Lou Donaldson was named a NEA Jazz Master.
