Date of Birth: August 6, 1937
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Date of Death: July 11, 2014
Biography
Charles Edward Haden, known as Charlie Haden, was an influential American jazz double bassist born in Shenandoah, Iowa. He is best known for his work with Ornette Coleman, which helped to pioneer the free jazz movement in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Haden’s rich, resonant tone and melodic approach to the bass made him a sought-after collaborator and bandleader throughout his career. He grew up in a musical family and started his career as a singer in his family’s country and folk band before transitioning to the double bass. In addition to his work with Coleman, Haden founded the Liberation Music Orchestra, which was known for its politically charged music. He also led the band Quartet West, which became known for its sophisticated blend of jazz and film noir aesthetics. Haden was a dedicated educator, serving as the director of the Jazz Studies program at the California Institute of the Arts.
5 Interesting Facts about Charlie Haden
1. Charlie Haden started performing at the age of two with his family’s country music band.
2. He was paralyzed by polio as a teenager, which temporarily halted his musical career.
3. Haden received a Grammy Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2013.
4. He was a dedicated political activist, often reflecting his views in his music.
5. Haden collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Keith Jarrett, Pat Metheny, and Gonzalo Rubalcaba.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Charlie Haden
1. “Jazz is a music of freedom and it is important to keep it alive.”
2. “I always want to be on the side of the people.”
3. “Music teaches you the most important things in life – that you can’t do it alone.”
4. “I think it’s important to bring a little bit of yourself into everything you do.”
5. “Silence is our canvas – it’s where the music comes from.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Charlie Haden’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million.
Children
Charlie Haden had four children, all of whom pursued careers in music. His triplet daughters, Petra, Rachel, and Tanya Haden, are accomplished musicians and performers. Petra Haden is known for her work as a violinist and singer, Rachel Haden is a bassist and singer, and Tanya Haden is a cellist and artist. Haden’s son, Josh Haden, is the lead singer and bassist for the band Spain.
Relevant Links
1. [Charlie Haden – AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/charlie-haden-mn0000218882
2. [Charlie Haden Bio – Blue Note Records](https://www.bluenote.com/artist/charlie-haden/
4. [Charlie Haden – NPR Jazz](https://www.npr.org/artists/15379261/charlie-haden