Paul Desmond

Paul Desmond- At the top of our list we have the one and only: Paul Desmond. Paul played with a very smooth style that shaped much of the 50's culture. He, paired with Dave Brubeck and his quartet, went on to create many masterpieces. "Take Five" was an instant success(written by the man himself). Paul Desmond wrote the song in 5/4 time and went on to play it with a style that couldn't be cooler. The quarter and him often toured colleges and bars where they found the most attention. Desmond's relaxed style often contrasted the style of Brubeck's piano playing, which tended to be very fast paced. Despite Desmond's individual success and talent he was not known for many other projects.

There are thousands of talented jazz musicians that are enjoyable to listen, but I'm specifically interested in finding the most influential, important, and most loved saxophonists. With so many variables, styles, and conditions in which a person plays sax it can be hard to truly decide on a greatest. The most pivotal saxophonists will be covered over the next twelve weeks. Their contributions to the many movements of the past century will remain the most important. Style and inventiveness will also play a large part in deciding who is the greatest in my book.