John Coltrane

Date of Birth: September 23, 1926

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: July 17, 1967

Biography

John William Coltrane, also known as “Trane,” was an American jazz saxophonist and composer. Born on September 23, 1926, in Hamlet, North Carolina, Coltrane grew up in High Point, North Carolina. He began his musical journey playing the clarinet and later switched to the saxophone. Coltrane’s career took off in the 1950s when he played with Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk, which significantly influenced his development as a musician. In 1957, Coltrane overcame his addiction to heroin and alcohol, marking a pivotal moment in his life and career. This period of transformation led to the creation of his seminal work “A Love Supreme” in 1964, a deeply spiritual album that reflected his religious beliefs and quest for enlightenment. Coltrane’s innovative approach to jazz, characterized by his use of modal scales and complex chord changes, revolutionized the genre and earned him a lasting legacy. Coltrane’s influence extended beyond his lifetime, and he remains a towering figure in jazz history. His work continues to inspire musicians and listeners around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about John Coltrane

1. John Coltrane was posthumously awarded a Special Citation by the Pulitzer Prize Board in 2007 for his contributions to music.

2. He was a significant figure in the development of modal jazz, particularly through his work with Miles Davis on the album “Kind of Blue.”

3. Coltrane’s album “A Love Supreme” is considered one of the greatest jazz albums of all time and is a spiritual declaration of his faith and devotion.

4. He was deeply influenced by Eastern philosophies and religions, incorporating these ideas into his music.

5. Coltrane practiced extensively, often for hours each day, and was known for his relentless pursuit of musical perfection.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Coltrane

1. “My music is the spiritual expression of what I am – my faith, my knowledge, my being.”

2. “I think music is an instrument. It can create the initial thought patterns that can change the thinking of the people.”

3. “You can play a shoestring if you’re sincere.”

4. “I never even thought about whether or not they understand what I’m doing… the emotional reaction is all that matters as long as there’s some feeling of communication, it isn’t necessary that it be understood.”

5. “One thought can produce millions of vibrations and they all go back to God. Everything does.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, John Coltrane’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million (adjusted for inflation, it would be approximately $7.5 million today).

Children

John Coltrane had three children with his second wife, Alice Coltrane. Their names are: 1. John Coltrane Jr. (1964–1982) 2. Ravi Coltrane (b. 1965) – a notable jazz saxophonist 3. Oran Coltrane (b. 1967) – a saxophonist and drummer