John William Coltrane, also known as "Trane" (September 23, 1926 – July 17, 1967), was an American jazz saxophonist and composer. Working in the bebop and hard bop idioms early in his career, Coltrane helped pioneer the use of modes in jazz and was later at the forefront of free jazz. He led at least fifty recording sessions during his career, and appeared as a sideman on many albums by other musicians, including trumpeter Miles Davis and pianist Thelonious Monk.
As his career progressed, Coltrane and his music took on an increasingly spiritual dimension. Coltrane influenced innumerable musicians, and remains one of the most significant saxophonists in music history. He received many posthumous awards and recognitions, including canonization by the African Orthodox Church as Saint John William Coltrane and a special Pulitzer Prize in 2007.His second wife was pianist Alice Coltrane and their son Ravi Coltrane is also a saxophonist.
The influence Coltrane has had on music spans many genres and musicians. Coltrane's massive influence on jazz, both mainstream and avant-garde, began during his lifetime and continued to grow after his death. He is one of the most dominant influences on post-1960 jazz saxophonists and has inspired an entire generation of jazz musicians.
In the studio in Santa Monica, California in 1980, Bob Dylan is captured whilst leaning on his guitar case.
Sex Pistols on the set for the 'Pretty Vacant' video shoot at the ITN Studios, London in June 1977
Shooting promotional films for the singles Rain & Paperback Writer at Chiswick Park Gardens in May 1966
This photo session was for No.1 Magazine (long since extinct) on a Eurythmics press day, they’d been doing interviews all day.
Ian Dury was an English rock and roll singer-songwriter, bandleader, artist, and actor who first rose to fame during the late 1970s.
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David Gilmour is a guitarist, vocalist and writer with the progressive rock band Pink Floyd, but is also renowned for his solo work.
Prince was a musical innovator known for his eclectic work, flamboyant stage presence, extravagant dress sense and unique vocal range.
We are all still reeling from the tragic loss of David Bowie. Here is a wonderful tribute from one of our photographers, Mark Mawston.
Our contact sheet collection is a rare opportunity to look back at the hidden moments surrounding some of rocks most iconic images.
The USA has given us many of the world's greatest music artists - we celebrate the best of the best
For eight years photographer Brian Duffy worked with David Bowie and shot his most iconic and enduring images. View his fantastic collection
