Ornette Coleman Quotes

A collection of quotes by Ornette Coleman.

Ornette Coleman was an American jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader. He was born on March 9, 1930, in Fort Worth, Texas. Coleman is widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to the free jazz movement, which challenged conventional musical structures and improvisational practices.

Coleman began his musical journey by learning the alto saxophone at a young age. His early experiences playing in local R&B and dance bands in Texas exposed him to a variety of musical styles. In the mid-1950s, Coleman relocated to Los Angeles, where he became a prominent figure in the city's jazz scene.

In 1959, Coleman released his groundbreaking album, "The Shape of Jazz to Come," which showcased his innovative compositional style and improvisational approach. His music rejected traditional chord progressions and emphasized collective improvisation and individual freedom.

Throughout his career, Coleman formed various influential ensembles, including the Ornette Coleman Quartet and the double quartet Prime Time. His compositions, characterized by their use of harmolodics, integrated elements of blues, folk, and other musical genres.

Over the course of his life, Ornette Coleman received numerous accolades, including a Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2007. His trailblazing spirit and artistic vision continue to inspire and influence musicians across various genres. Coleman passed away on June 11, 2015, leaving behind a profound musical legacy.

I remember once I read a book on mental illness and there wa

I remember once I read a book on mental illness and there was a nurse that had gotten sick. Do you know what she died from? From worrying about the mental patients not being able to get their food. She became a mental patient.

Ornette Coleman


I remember once, we got an interview, and he said, 'Dad, the

I remember once, we got an interview, and he said, 'Dad, these people are writing about me like I'm an adult. Don't they know I'm a kid?' I have never tried to encourage him to get a music image like other musicians have.

Ornette Coleman

Dad

I've never had a relationship with a record executive. I alw

I've never had a relationship with a record executive. I always went to the record company by someone that liked my playing. Then they would get fired, and I'd be left with the record company. And then - because they got fired - the record company wouldn't do anything for me.

Ornette Coleman

Relationship

Most of my relationships have been like that - with record c

Most of my relationships have been like that - with record companies. I've never had a legitimate business relationship with a company. I've always had a personal relationship with someone in the company.

Ornette Coleman

Relationship

It was when I found out I could make mistakes that I knew I

It was when I found out I could make mistakes that I knew I was on to something.

Ornette Coleman

Mistakes