John Coltrane left an indelible mark on the world, but what was the essence of his achievement that makes him so prized forty years after his death? What were the factors that helped Coltrane become who he was? And what would a John Coltrane look like now--or are we looking for the wrong signs? In this deftly written, riveting study, New York Times jazz critic Ben Ratliff answers these questions and examines the life of Coltrane, the acclaimed band leader and deeply spiritual man who changed the face of jazz music. Ratliff places jazz among other art forms and within the turbulence of American social history, and he places Coltrane not just among jazz musicians but among the greatest American artists.

Coltrane on Coltrane includes every known Coltrane interview, many in new transcriptions, and several previously unpublished; articles, reminiscences, and liner notes that rely on interviews; and some of Coltrane's personal writings and correspondence [Publisher description].

John Coltrane was a key figure in jazz, a pioneer in world music, and an intensely emotional force. This biography presents interviews with Coltrane, photos, genealogical documents, and musical analysis that offers a fresh view of Coltrane's genius. It explores the events of Coltrane's life and offers an insightful look into his musical practices.

Through a diverse collection of essays and interviews featuring leading Black media personalities, musicians and scholars, this volume presents the "insiders' view" - Black perspectives on Coltrane's powerful and lasting legacy viewed in contemporary times within the context of Black strivings for freedom.

Every critic, fan, and student of jazz who has listened to A Love Supreme or My Favorite Things knows that John Coltrane died entirely too young. But even within his tragically brief life, which ended in 1967 at the age of 40, he became one of the most innovative and experimental forces in African-American music. In this provocative study, musician and historian Bill Cole sharpens our focus on the legendary tenor saxophonist through the twin lenses of Africanism and spiritualism.

(Fake Book). This collection pays tribute to one of the most influential players in jazz history with over 125 of Coltrane's most memorable works arranged in fake book notation, including: Afro Blue * Alabama * Blue Train (Blue Trane) * Body and Soul * Bye Bye Blackbird * Crescent * Giant Steps * I Want to Talk About You * Jupiter * Lush Life * My Favorite Things * Oleo * So What * Summertime * and more.