- Born
- Died
- Birth nameWalter Theodore Rollins
- Nicknames
- Newk
- Colossus
- Height6′ (1.83 m)
- Sonny Rollins was born on September 7, 1930 in Harlem, Manhattan, New York City, New York, USA. He was a composer and actor, known for Project Power (2020), Metro (1997) and The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999). He was married to Lucille Pearson and Dawn Finley. He died on May 25, 2026 in Woodstock, New York, USA.
- SpousesLucille Pearson(March 5, 1965 - November 27, 2004) (her death)Dawn Finley(March 1957 - ?) (divorced)
- Childrennone
- ParentsWalter William RollinsValborg Rollins
- RelativesGloria Rollins Anderson(Sibling)Valdemar Rollins(Sibling)Clifton Anderson(Niece or Nephew)Vallyn Anderson(Niece or Nephew)Miriam Walcott(Grandparent)
- Jazz musician.
- He was awarded the 2010 National Medal of Arts for his contributions to American jazz music. He was one of the most important and influential jazz musicians of the post-bebop era, his melodic sensibilities, playing style, and solos have delighted audiences and influenced generations of musicians for over 50 years.
- Recipient of the 2011 Kennedy Center Honors, along with Barbara Cook, Neil Diamond, Yo-Yo Ma, and Meryl Streep.
- Friends with John Coltrane.
- Inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1999.
- I've always felt a little bit restricted in a studio, at least when the technology came out and you can overdub and change your original statement. So then I think I got spooked and I began trying to do everything perfectly.
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