British musician John Chilton's authoritative biography of tenor saxophone giant Coleman Hawkins is a well-researched exploration of the life and career of the first musician to use the saxophone as a serious soloing instrument. Hawkins influenced generations of jazz saxophonists, including Charlie Parker and John Coltrane, both of whom he performed with in later life. In THE SONG OF THE HAWK, Chilton reveals how Hawkins' lifelong enthusiasm for musical experimentation and exploration led to his involvement in several decades' worth of innovative jazz movements. He experienced hot jazz during his 1930s stint with Fletcher Henderson's orchestra, and bebop--towards which he displayed an enthusiasm endorsed by few of his contemporaries--during the 1940s. Hawkins' open attitude extended to his involvement with John Coltrane and Thelonious Monk in the late 1950s, and with Max Roach and Sonny Rollins in the'60s. Chilton presents Hawkins as an incredibly talented but secretive figure, obscure about personal details such as his date of birth and his early influences, yet generous with his praise for younger players and genuine in his enthusiasm for musical innovation. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.