TOP 10 ALTO SAXOPHONE Players of all Time (Classic Jazz)

#bettersax #saxophone #top10
Jay Metcalf reviews his list of top 10 of the greatest, most influential and must know alto sax players of all time.
Players mentioned (not in any order): Charlie Parker, Sonny Stitt, Cannonball Adderley, Johnny Hodges, Benny Carter, Jackie Mclean, Phil Woods, Lee Konitz, Paul Desmond, Ornette Coleman
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[@artofmusic303]

Cannonball Adderley is my favorite. Complete command of the instrument, always expressive, always plays with a beautiful tone.

[@JoMoPho]

Mine too so much so that I wish he'd took longer solos than his Brother.

[@michaelfaraday2146]

Charlie Parker, hombre!

[@thomasespositio3139]

Jay its a great list and 10 isn't many but I would put sweet papa Lou Donaldson in instead of ornette Coleman maybe there isn't any room for the great Sonny Criss and perhaps I would throw Art Pepper in there replacing I don't know Paul Desmond maybe

[@KeithDunnFernandez]

I almost wept when I heard Johnny Hodges. That BEND with utterly no distinct demarcation between the notes is remarkable. It reminds me of that clarinet intro in Rhapsody In Blue. Thank you SO MUCH for this video.

[@Supremedalex]

Johnny Hodges is such a great player and what is funny about what you said is that Johnny’s inspiration was Sidney Bechet, who was a soprano sax player but also was a clarinet player.

[@Aramis7]

Johnny's sound is completely unique, absolutely love his music

[@terrywho22]

When Pepper and Dolphy were not mentioned, I was very disappointed, but seeing Hodges get credit takes away from that disappointment a little.

[@thomasespositio3139]

@@Aramis7 Willie Smith sounded a bit liked the Rabbitt but not quite, noone put more emotion in a note than Hodges

[@michaeldegrottole5264]

So many great players here and as always you presented it all so well. I thought you would have mentioned Art Pepper who’s tone and command was just so brilliant.

[@fransvandaele9465]

My personal favorite

[@YourTripleScorpio]

Art of 'Straight Life'

[@hsitz]

@@YourTripleScorpio Yes, his later stuff was quite a bit different from what he was doing it the 1950's. I especially like stuff, I think, from his Living Legend (1975) album and later. Frank Morgan, who Pepper played with whie serving time in San Quentin prison, is another top alto guy.

[@vncstudio]

Yes. Indeed!

[@georgekosich5563]

When it comes to beautiful melodic lines, a great sound, being unique not only in bop, but in every style he plays, with a touch of humor thrown in, PHIL WOODS was second to none!

[@jacobmiller2202]

Charlie Parker is who inspired me to start playing, I grew up in Camarillo and his song Relaxing in Camarillo has always been a fall back reminds there are people crazier than me

[@timkoelling4095]

Eric Dolphy deserves a mention in there - his virtuosity, melodic and harmonic "out" development is beyond reproach. I remember buying "Out To Lunch" in High School, it giving me a massive headache and putting it away for a year, then playing it non-stop because it was just so good.

[@chandlertaylor3881]

Dolphy has a god like alto tone

[@perrym.perretz505]

Agree, Dolphy deserves a spot.

[@tylon2999]

The omission of Mr. Dolphy invalidates the list.

[@DominusOminous]

Dolphy, for me, defines bass clarinet.

[@chandlertaylor3881]

DominusOminous and jazz flute. He was really the first to play the bass clarinet and flute in a hard bop setting

[@pmwizard48]

First time I heard Paul Desmond play on the radio hooked me to his sound and improvisation abilities. I still listen and marvel at his playing.

[@gladstone6338]

I saw the Dave Brubeck Quartet live at Northern Illinois University in 1965 when I graduated from high school and marveled at their cohesiveness. I ended up studying music there and it has become a great music program, especially for jazz players/singers. Paul Desmond could improvise long passages and always maintained an almost stork like stance :-)

[@313w47st]

I totally agree...Desmond was still an original and had impeccable taste. Tone master.

[@PaulBernish]

I’ll go with Paul Desmond. The very best.

[@x.y.8581]

That short segment of Desmond does not really show his incredible lyrical playing at his best - in fact that whole performance (I believe from a playboy club long ago) was not the best showcase of the entire quartet - much of the songs seemed rushed and the players just don't seem that relaxed.

[@pmwizard48]

@@x.y.8581 I saw Paul Desmond live on their anniversary tour. He was fantastic. Just a lyrical as always and his tone was great.

[@SweetSpotGuitar]

Phil Woods' solo on Billy Joel's "Just the Way You Are" is absolutely incredible. Love it.

[@JoMoPho]

Its a classic forever.

[@taftchatham7456]

Very enjoyable and articulate presentation. I was a jazz DJ on public radio (KLCC) for quite a few years, and appreciate anyone who communicates their love of jazz. Gary Giddins comes to mind as another jazz ambassador whose enthusiasm is infectious. Keep up the great work.

[@kasperkat454]

Phil Woods said “i never got Charlies horn. I mean i got his wife, and i stole his licks But not his horn” Phil played a Gold plated Mk6, that Marcel Mule handpicked for him at the selmer factory in Paris. Later up until his death he played a custom Yamaha. I’m happy Phil got mentioned - he was such a collosus and a humble soul.

[@scottfarlinger1358]

Good one! I don't think Bird ever had a horn - at least not one that didn't make it into the pawn shop after a gig. Red Rodney in some interview said that Bird could have played a tomato can and made it sing good. On the Massey Hall record he's playing that plastic thing and it sounds like the best Selmer ever made. And yes, Phil was an awesome player.

[@glenndgood]

Phil talks about playing Bird's Super 20 on a gig when he had hocked his own horn to buy groceries. Mingus walked in, saw it, and gave Phil the side-eye. He talks about it on a JazzWax interview. Presumably after he left Chan the horn stayed with Chan.

[@jeffreyrainey1015]

Hearing him on Just the way you are made me seek him out, so I'm glad he crossed over. What a sound! To me, there's something oddly Freudian about him switching from a Selmer to a Yamaha horn, as that probably has some purists fuming. This, however, from someone who hasn't yet played a Selmer.

[@robkunkel8833]

I actually got an email from him. Not sure why but that was so cool. He said thanks from something I said.

[@extravagantnoise8365]

@@robkunkel8833 I was honored to repair Phil's horns several times including his clarinet. He was super kind, and always gave me a little concert. It was amazing. :-)

[@robinreidmusic]

Sonny Stitt went on to be a great tenor player to stop people from saying he copied Charlie Parker. I loved his playing on both for sure.

[@glennhenrich992]

Robin Habermehl, agreed! I even have a recording of Stitt on baritone!

[@ricardoayala2023]

I read somewhere that both Kenny Clarke and Miles Davis hear Stitt playing like that before they hear Parker.

[@tomscott1741]

Sonny Stitt definitely went out of his way to copy Charlie Parker! He sounds his best when he plays his own ideas though.

[@olebirgerpedersen]

@@glennhenrich992 Could you please put this recording on KZbin. I should really like to hear that.

[@olebirgerpedersen]

@@tomscott1741 he never copied Parker. He played the same styl together with all the others.

[@jayfogelman]

KZbin is so full of "Top 10" lists of every kind, they get old quick, but this is the best I've ever seen: not trying to foster competition, full of real insight, really educational in the best sense, and driven by an articulate passion. Thanks, Jay.

[@gregoryboyer4846]

Ever heard a musician whose style of play is so distinctive, so intricate, no one can clone it? The rhythm, pulse, nuance, and emotion of Maceo Parker makes him one of the most ORIGINAL altoists of all time. Definitely list worthy

[@nicholaswise5818]

paul's solo on Black Orpheus is amazing. so many phrases and themes that are fully developed and everything works so seamlessly

[@ziruini5071]

love that solo. first solo I transcribed in full

[@robstevens9590]

Each of these great musicians made a unique contribution. 2 others I would include are Oliver Nelson and Eric Dolphy ( although they played multiple instruments their alto playing was superb.)

[@longtalljay]

Desmond had the most identifiable tone and sound. In fact, only Acker Bilk and Coltrane have had an equally instantly identifiable timbre. Great educational service here! Cheers!

[@emilianoturazzi]

I don't fully agree also Ornette and at least Lee Konitz had such personal and instantly identifiable tone, but, to be honest I'd say the same at least for Bird and Hodges.

[@wildsmiley]

Paul Desmond’s tone is a dry martini on a warm spring day, in the arms of Audrey Hepburn. I’m just in awe whenever I hear a single note from the guy.

[@bradmiller3396]

I love this! What a picture

[@charlavenant3857]

What a lovely image. You could be a poet. 🤗

[@wildsmiley]

@@charlavenant3857 I am, actually. ☺

[@FunkOsax]

Jay, this is fantastic, one of the best yet. I’d love you to do more of this, perhaps a series where you dwell a bit longer on each player. Absolutely loved it. Thanks.

[@willtisdale9899]

This is a beautiful production. Thank you for educating us and for putting in the time to make it so enjoyable. I loved seeing you passion shine through in this.

[@charlieparker4928]

All of the legends along with myself in this list are looking at this saxophone channel with confidence and pride, keep up the great videos Mr Jay

[@charlavenant3857]

Nice going Jay. That’s a great compilation of sax masters. For me Johnny Hodges stands out and has always been my favourite. His blue blue bends and vibrato makes his sax sound so like the human voice, I get the shivers whenever I listen to him.

[@bigsnozitaliano9494]

I’m pretty sure he played on a tenor reed and that’s why he could bend so low

[@timobesamusca9332]

Thx for this GREAT video, Jay! This one really made my day, just to dip in for 10 minutes and listen to some great alto players. Looking forward to the tenor, bari and soprano editions 😃

[@tonyalcock2187]

Thank you Jay. A great, if not simple, idea to introduce a sort of 'Best of Sax players' into your series. The musicians themselves are more significant than the machines they are playing through, and of course a choice of all things is, or should be, personal. What I also appreciated was your astute observations of the players in doing what they did so naturally. On the only occasion when I witnessed Sonny Stitt live (in the late 1970s), I was mesmerised how little his fingers seemed to move; I thought I too should places my fingers nearer the keys. Lesson learnt!

[@flame_half]

Cannonball is my favorite all time. I listened to all of them, but when I heard Cannonball for the first time, I knew he was my guy. The soul he put into every single note made him so much fun to listen to. He had the technical chops to play with all the other big cats, but every tune he played was filled with emotion where the other guys sometimes felt like they were going through the motions. He was underrated for his time, but now it seems like he gets the recognition he deserves among sax players I meet.

[@D-KAL-KDZ]

His solo on “Green Dolphin St.” is hands down one of the craziest solos I’ve ever heard. Truly unmatched

[@jnoir87]

I started playing the Sax when I was 11 years old. I fell in love with the Sax at 12 years of age when my uncle gave me a Johnny Hodges compilation. His playing was and still is, extraordinarily good.

[@scoobydoo5141]

Started playing when i was 11, lost the drive to get better because of my director in high school, now i’m back it. You’re an amazing player, and your tone is so good. i love your channel, keep it up💛

[@robkunkel8833]

Me too. No person drove me away, just high school, women, boats and adventure. Now, I’m back to the horn with a new passion ...well, all the passion I can muster aided by cool videos. I never had teacher that inspired me like KZbin videos do ... especially this guy with the black hat on this video.

[@williamdelabrue5157]

The Charlie Parker Eb palm key for D is everything!! Thanks Jay.

[@casr9667]

Amazing video! Loving the brief jazz history that’s included here, very insightful

[@Leising]

I just found your videos and channel today and this is already probably the sixth video I've watched so far. I played alto in high school and sold my horn a few years after graduating since a friend borrowed my alto while I was playing baritone for marching season... and he dropped it. I've been thinking about getting a new one and playing again for a while now. After seeing your videos with the Jean Paul, I think I know what I'm getting. And watching this video, listening to these legends helped rekindle my desire to play more than ever. I have a feeling I'll be watching your videos a lot more often now. Thanks for the great content. I look forward to seeing more.

[@emiliomunguia578]

I've always loved Charlie Parker and Paul Desmond. But my favorite is Sonny Criss. Especially on Crisscraft

[@tcause]

Emilio Munguia also a big Sonny Criss fan here.

[@cryptowalls]

same!!! all his music is a lesson on articulation and expression!

[@ricardoayala2023]

I'm also a big fan of Criss...and that album you mention was my intro to him...I love it.

[@ronparry9903]

Fantastic player. Right up there.

[@marilynacquafredda3802]

Personally I would have Art Pepper in there. I always thought he was under appreciated. Can't argue with your top 10. Thanks, J.A.

[@The_Ex_Boxing_Nerd]

I use to love his playing, but I hardly ever listen to him after reading just a little of his auto biography....he admitted to raping a woman when he was overseas in the UK in the military...

[@olafsrensen9578]

Yes Art are mising.

[@fosbury68]

@@The_Ex_Boxing_Nerd What does that have to do with his music?

[@TheRealDrJoey]

@@The_Ex_Boxing_Nerd I read that book many years ago. Still think the guy really sounded good. But he was a weirdo, no doubt about it.

[@ziruini5071]

Amazing video! love how you give us insights into both the history and musical side of things. Would be awesome to see one of these videos for tenor players

[@jpdj2715]

Cannonball's "Work Song" (live on his "Nippon Soul" album) is a great example of musical storytelling. And it swings.

[@777morgan3]

listen cannons rumplestilskin by joe zavinul

[@TomBavarois]

Thank you Jay, in this great introduction to alto sax history. Very interesting and I got a lot of new knowledge from it.

[@badboikyoto3585]

I think one of the most overlooked alto saxophone players is Gigi Gryce, would be nice to see him on your next list, the man deserves some justice

[@jazzbluesguitarist]

I agree with you. Gryce is one of my favourites. Great fluent altoist. Bluesy (like Eddie 'Cleanhead' Vincent) with the cool sound and thoughtful line development of Lee Konitz.

[@lastknowngood0]

Pacquito D'Rivera is an awesome Alto & Clarinet Artist.

[@lastknowngood0]

Ray Charles blew a mean Alto as well.

[@davidcalabotta2651]

By far, the absolute BEST list of the greatest alto players; and, I loved your technical assessment and justification of each…very insightful and spot on the mark. Bravo!!!

[@TheSaxophony]

Absolutely fabulous video, thank you Jay! So informative and your passion shines through. Wish I saw this video 30 years ago I may then have decided to dedicate my life to playing the saxophone professionally. Great work please keep it up.

[@xenadon]

Really enjoyed this. I liked how you paused the recording and drew our attention to different things and compared/contrasted the different musicians. I would love more breakdowns like that. I struggle sometimes when I'm listening because I don't always know what I'm listening for.

[@vernonely9969]

For your part 2 please add the following sax bbn players Lou donaldson. Art pepper. Ace Cannon .I give you a big shout out cause I return to M playing Alto n your Helping me alot

[@yehudalichtenstein574]

What an amazing video!! This is not any more "internet saxophone content", this is actual education right here. Appreciate you so much for this video!! As a saxophone teacher, I find myself using your videos more and more to enrich my students. This is a video that I will surely share with them.

[@bettersax]

Thanks. That’s what I was aiming for.

[@philiphowardmiller1637]

This is a wonderful piece of work Jay, so informative with so much research. Thank you!

[@kevinculpepper1310]

Absolutely awesome video. Thank you very much for taking the time to put it together.

[@barttennekes544]

Hey Jay I just wanted to say that you are the reason I decided to play saxophone :)

[@bettersax]

🤘

[@jakobv27]

Me too

[@robkunkel8833]

He must like hearing that. I would. Go get ‘em ... and bring your horn to the Virgin Islands if you visit someday.

[@a.f.4977]

That is a terrible reason ... won’t play long

[@codloadouts4512]

Same

[@rickaolk]

Jay, I don't even play the Saxophone (love music though) but I love your videos man. The quality of editing, content and general enjoyment in music and in putting out good education on youtube and not some copy paste stuff that we see around is enough to make me binge watched a lot of your videos. Thank you.

[@weezy1194]

Definitely 💯

[@gleebishop]

First of all, thank you for putting this together, getting all the archival footage, the energy of your presentation and your courage to play some of those riffs is all amazing. Whenever a ranking is offered, it will be "a priori" controversial, or a best-list, just the nature of the beast. I would just like to second the inclusion of Art Pepper, Lou Donaldson, and Eric Dolphy that others have suggested. Pepper's career has a huge gap in it for known reasons, and his recordings in '57-60 and then again '75-82, combine for a great opus. Donaldson hit some great highs, esp. "Blues Walk," and Dolphy's impressive work was cut short by his tragic death in Germany at young age of 36. Your list is great, and feel these 3 alto's deserve to be on it. "Out to Lunch" never fails to make the Top 10 of any "Greatest Jazz Album list" - thank you again, really enjoyed your post.

[@rudigerwouters1213]

These guys are all so good, so fantastic...but there is one...my god ...he plays his heart out on the alto, it's pure emotion...when he plays the blues you start crying...it's Art Pepper!

[@Rawchicken765]

i agree with everthing you are puttin down Art Pepper is a GOAT

[@bigswingface5847]

Art Pepper. Best of the Best. Or should I say, my favorite. No one played with more emotion. Superb.

[@paulsmith7424]

ditto on Art Pepper "Come Rain or Shine"

[@bryanhoke5288]

Art Pepper is one sax player that I can listen to all day.

[@owenthomas6337]

Benny Carter's "Live at Montreux 1977" was the first jazz album I genuinely, immediately loved - despite several failed attempts to *get* jazz while I was a beginner student. His solo on "In a Mellow Tone" is less solo, and more "extemporaneous composition". The fact that, a couple choruses later, he played a beautifully developed, melodic solo on trumpet is ... an insight into how a great musical mind can flow through different instruments, without the need for technical virtuosity. (Which, no doubt, he had on sax; but that was never the main thing, with him.)

[@sergej100qca4]

Here are mine: Cannonball Adderley Phil Woods Charlie Parker Sonny Stitt Lee Konitz Those are the people who influenced me the most

[@leobn2010]

Thanks ever so much for this very informative and extremely well done video. It is a joy to watch and learn from it. Thanks for decomposing what the player is doing, great way to absorb the info. I’ll keep it as one my all-times favourites! Cheers!

[@scottraustin]

Assembling the video excerpts alone makes this video stellar. Kudos for taking on a very subjective "best of" list but your comments managed to articulate the essence of each style in support of their inclusion very well. Thanks for giving Phil and Jackie recognition and noting the word humble. Early Phil in B&W keeps the history lesson going but wish the video had shown "later Phil" in color (like Jackie's color vid) to show his true fiery sound smoking through 2nd and 3rd movement of his Sun Suite composition, Cheek to Cheek (Grammy winner) or with Bob Berg and Dizzy on Friday Night at the Cadillac Club (Rhythmstick). His breadth of genius from bop to ballads in sound, technique, changes and phrasing will never be beat. Also thanks for noting setups as always wondered what Bird's Super 20 sounded like as that's what I play for tenor but MKVI alto. Great comparative analyses. Thanks.

[@williamgregory1848]

7:54 God, that bend into the high note at the start of the head gets me every time. Rest In Peace Johnny Hodges 🙏🏾🎷

[@artwilliams8794]

Gato barbie in the '' ndre@ the great watne shorter

[@artwilliams8794]

Coltrane

[@stevenbundick6591]

As always Jay, kudos on your very positive and conscientious work(s) of integrity, on-point thought and information. Moveover, your honesty and "make-it-plan" approach to your video teachings are to be applauded and deserves props!!! As to my two cents, if I may, I would like to add to your list the one and only Frank Morgan, my friend and mentor. Thank you! -sb

[@SStone-dm7es]

Your video on the 10 greatest tenor saxophonists is great because you also talk about the struggles of those players under the harsh racism of the US - it’s great to see that because most people either don’t know or don’t care! I really appreciate your honesty and your own genuine appreciation of these iconic players! You’re also a great player in your own right!

[@SuperDuperTuberTube]

Fantastic video. Thanks so much for putting this together.

[@extravagantnoise8365]

I'd like to add Bud Shank, Kim Richmond and Med Flory. I wish I could see more of that King horn Jay - it looks familiar. I once lacquered just the brass and left the silver neck without lacquer at a customer's request. Thank you for the memories. I was so fortunate to repair for some greats. The great players were the ones who were also humble. You need to be humble to learn and they never stopped learning. I miss so many of them now.

[@wbhrash]

Glad you included Jackie McLean too.

[@martind3787]

I played 18 holes of golf back in 1995(?) with Flip Phillips and we hit it off, so he later on gave me an old sax as long as I promised to learn how to play. He was a really “cool dude” and played with quite a few other famous musicians. I just had sax repaired ( new pads , some rust removed ) and as promised I’m fulfilling my promise at 74 yo !!…….so keep ‘em coming

[@zeemarkinnovator4643]

Jay. This video is priceless. WOW. What an education and inspiration for me with my Alto Sax. Such talent rises above and is forever, like great art and architecture that lives to eternity. Thanks for the ride.

[@richardm1]

Jackie McLean. The Dynasty album knocks me out every time I listen. All are so great. Amazing that so much genius is borne from so much adversity and pain.

[@seancdaggs6298]

Eric Dolphy-

[@seancdaggs6298]

Nelson Rangell

[@chrisparker5372]

Thanks for this! I thought "Whoa, 19 minutes. Well, I can click through." Every minute was packed with info and yumminess.. Thanks for bringing so much knowledge to this! James Moody seems to be sneaking into my consciousness recently.

[@jerih.1976]

Ooh James Moody is a expectational Alto & flute player. I first 👀 him with Dizzy quintet on the BBC jazz 625. His performance was phenomenal & that's what's up!!!

[@mannagod13]

So great! Great history! Great sound bite choices! I know what making videos like this entails - so well done! Keep up the great work. I will keep watching. :)

[@frankgreco4292]

This one and your top TENor video are so enjoyable. Thanks Jay!

[@maliqued.wilkerson8327]

Hey Jay!! Big fan of your channel!! And this is definitely my favorite video you’ve posted so far!! Would’ve loved to see your spend some time with Art Pepper and Marshall Royal. Hope to see more videos with you discussing saxophone legends.👍🏽

[@accouswk]

Agree! Was looking for Art Pepper - Blues In. My goodness that’s too good - hard to have ‘em all of course. Awesome video! Watch this with my 9 year old who just started playing. He was locked in - this has inspired him (and me too).

[@mairenared]

Great video Jay, it's always difficult to narrow the list down to 10. I'd have included Art Pepper but then it's difficult to know who to leave out in order to fit him in. Johnny Hodges is probably my favourite alto player as he had the most beautiful tone, but I hear what you say about Ornette Coleman. I saw him live a couple of times and he had a totally unique style and sound. He'd start off playing a recognisable tune and then go off at a tangent into a dimension all of his own, only to slip imperceptibly back into the real world to finish the song. Absolutely amazing!

[@hans-ulrichbuehler8769]

Yes, Art Pepper is missing in the top ten of the altoists. He was a great tenor and clarinet player too.

[@mindycoleman1745]

Wow. Just WOW!!! played in jazz band when I was younger. Just bought an antique alto and relearning it. I subscribed. Strictly from this video. You, sir, are amazing!!!

[@nealmorrison9269]

Wow.. your insight.... informative and educational! Thanks for the great Music History lesson!!

[@DrLogical987]

Whatever the list, I really like these KZbins where you tell us what you're hearing or seeing - details of style, technique etc. Really useful without lining up yet another lick to be learned in "all 12 keys" which noone has the time to do!

[@serzok1]

Great clip with great clips. I would add of course, Mr. Art Pepper.

[@exoditegrayc]

Sweet stuff! Outstanding! Thanks for sharing.

[@TheVatonaught]

Wonderfulness and your explanation fits my man... I'm guitar myself but love this too...you filled a void for musicians...thanks

[@terryhorlick679]

I love Earl Bostic’s melodic work and incredible altissimo work. Also Brent Jensen carrying on from Paul Desmonds style.

[@TryingMyBest2598]

Some of my favorite alto players, currently: -Vincent Herring -David "Fathead" Newman -Charles McPherson -Richie Cole -Kenny Garrett

[@andrea22213]

Loved Charles McPherson's playing.

[@mrgabifour4]

Check out Baptiste Herbin.

[@davidgrant6263]

Fathead Newman was more of a Tenor Player wasnt he?

[@TryingMyBest2598]

@@davidgrant6263 He also played tenor, but whenever he records with alto, it's really stellar

[@davidgrant6263]

I guess i never knew him as a alto player just as Ray Charles' Tenor man. But, im sure he was a Great Alto player as well.

[@stacys447]

Can't wait for the tenor sax version! Thanks. This was great.

[@mycitypictures]

Love the compilation. Very inspiring.

[@jazzbluesguitarist]

Gigi Gryce is another outstanding altoist to add to the greatest list. I recommend the album 'When Farmer Met Gryce' with Art Farmer for fluent soloing. His style combined the bluesness of Charlie Parker ( or Eddie 'Cleanhead' Vinson) with the cool sound and thoughtful line development of Lee Konitz.

[@shanteixeira4830]

Nice job !! I would add Maceo Parker to that list. Such a great player with amazing funk/groove influence. Seems like sometimes the traditional Jazz /bebob greats get all the attention and accolades

[@crieverytim]

They definitely do!

[@johngirvin3671]

Great vid and so interesting. The combination of video excerpts with your commentary is so engaging, like a fine classroom. Excellent use of graphics, too, without the usual YT silliness. Plus, I never knew that Eb palm key thing... (pro keyboardist here, basic level sax player)

[@frankgarcia6921]

I have the utmost respect for this KZbin saxophone contributor. Being originally from San Diego, Charles Macpherson is a notable omission of great alto players in this collection of alto sax greats.In the late 80s I remember hearing Macpherson was one of the players considered for the soundtrack to Bird. This is an extract of Wikipedia. Charles McPherson (born July 24, 1939)[1] is an American jazz alto saxophonist born in Joplin, Missouri, United States, and raised in Detroit, Michigan, who worked intermittently with Charles Mingus from 1960 to 1974, and as a performer Charles McPherson (born July 24, 1939)[1] is an American jazz alto saxophonist born in Joplin, Missouri, United States, and raised in Detroit, Michigan, who worked intermittently with Charles Mingus from 1960 to 1974, and as a performer leading his own groups.[1] McPherson also was commissioned to help record ensemble renditions of pieces from Charlie Parker, on the 1988 soundtrack for the film Bird.[1] I can’t think of a better endorsement than being asked to play on a movie soundtrack about bird. The late Ritchie Cole is another burnin bopper.

[@stevekeller4814]

Two candidates for the "Part 2" - I'm sure you thought of these guys, but I can't fault any of your choices :) These guys belong in the top 10 too... I guess that means we go to 12. * Eric Dolphy (I see from other comments that he has been mentioned a lot) * Kenny Garrett - didn't see his name on ANY comments, which is sad. One of the best alto saxophonists of all time in my opinion, he has an instantly identifiable and distinctive sound and style. Honorable mention, in case you are looking for names for the "top ten part 2..." * Art Pepper - very influential, an interesting meld of hard bop and West Coast styles. * Sonny Fortune - a unique voice, with unique tone and unique melodic thought * Marshal Royal - one of the best lead alto players ever.

[@jsweenie13]

I immediately thought of Kenny Garrett, though I can see how he gets pushed out of a top ten by all the legends on this list. Eric Dolby as an omission seems criminal, but I didn’t remember him until I saw it commented.

[@alocyn]

Yeah man I agree!

[@kadenn8811]

Oats and Kenny

[@robertguttman5396]

See my comment above, omitting Dolphy and Garrett is puzzling - and Sonny Fortune another "sleeper." Royal was a great lead alto player - but with Johnny Hodges on the list I think Royal's absence is not as glaring.

[@grigorianmusic]

Eric Dolphy and Kenny Garrett. 100% agree with you man

[@rmcellig]

Love this video!! Art pepper is one player that should definitely be in this video!! 😀

[@user-qr7be4ov7l]

Everyone has all time favorite sax players ! This is Jay’s opinion and I truly appreciate it

[@natepearson3889]

You seem like one of the most likable, chill people on the planet. Great vid!

[@danielperkins4610]

Great list! Yes, Art Pepper! Meets the Rhythm Section!

[@itaylevin4555]

I really love Ornette Coleman, I don't think he's appreciated enough, his style of playing is extremely distinct and instantly recognizable. Also Sadness is one of my favorite compositions from him!

[@esl.mooresongs7993]

I don't like much of the later "free" stuff he did, but I think that a lot of the melodies he wrote, especially with his early quartets, were very catchy. Songs like Una Muy Bonita, Lonely Woman, Focus on Sanity, Broadway Blues and others brought a fresh approach to jazz.

[@JoMoPho]

I feel ya in him He plays in heavy Key signature s Most of the time

[@pcm7315]

@@esl.mooresongs7993 Agree. Have the "Focus on Sanity" album. I liked how he had a theme that allowed me come along on his musical journey without getting lost. Especially so on Focus on Sanity and Lonely Woman.

[@YourTripleScorpio]

Tru Blu 'Lonely Woman.'

[@rufaiajala1302]

Great list and nice to see Paul Desmond on the list, very underrated, along with Art Pepper, my absolute favourite who is also clearly underrated. Thanks!

[@DimitriLozano]

Really great video!! I was inspired to pause the video at the beginning and create my own top ten list beforehand, although I strayed from the Alto region and just went overall: 1. Bird 2. Coltrane 3. Cannonball 4. Sonny Stitt 5. Coleman Hawkins 6. Stan Getz 7. Sonny Rollins 8. Dexter Gordon 9. Lester Young 10. Ornette Coleman I admit, I may have not gone with the most influential players to the consensus, but definitely the most influential to me. Keep up the great work!

[@purveyoroffinefoodslaszlo9955]

Paul Desmond. Totally original style. One of the few alto players not influenced by sound or hard bop style of Bird. Phrasing, sound, use of time signatures. And he came into his own as a player even more after his time with Brubeck. His early 60's albums with Jim Hall are required listening. Or just pour a scotch or martini and enjoy.

[@edleifer6719]

Great list and all are worthy of mention for their playing on the Alto sax. I would have to add Eric Dolphy to that list and to me that is a no brainer for any serious jazz fan, in addition you should have Art Pepper for his considerable output on alto in the fifties and sixties. Another guy not as well known, but a great alto player none the less is Sonny Criss who had many fine recordings during his career.

[@gladstone6338]

Well, this is unbelievable. Your list and mine are almost identical with the exception of Ornette Coleman. I have always thought that branding Sonny Stitt, Phil Woods and Cannonball as the new bird did them a dis-service. I have many examples of music from all on your list and listen often. I became a fan of Phil Woods listening to his album Warm Woods years ago and met him in 1983 in Chicago. His solo on Cheek to Cheek from the album Live at the Showboat is my favorite jazz alto solo of all time. The way he introduces it with an almost classical tone ala Marcel Mule and then forms an improvised solo that never loses sight of the original melody is mesmerizing. Other players to include on a further list could include Sonny Criss and Richie Cole and I'm sure others. For the record, it appears you and I play the same horn, Yanigisawa A991? Great post.

[@medsimvallejo]

An excellent education on styles and evolution of styles... OUTSTANDING!!!

[@upjumpedspring]

I forgot to suggest that during the Phil Woods, "Night in Tunisia" solo, his creative improvisation that you mentioned included a few bars of "If You Should Leave Me."

[@robkunkel8833]

upjumpedspring ... was this the version with Louie Bellson on drums? What a solo he did on that piece.

[@markteague8889]

Not to mention his work on Billy Joel's recordings.

[@donaldfedosiuk1638]

Can't play a note or carry a tune, but loved this! Put in a wrd, though, for Boston's OTHER great alto playerr -- Charlie Mariano (who shows up in "On the Road," no less.

[@sitalimwiingahamatuli2024]

Thanks for sharing Jay! I've now connected the master/protégé links that have exisited among some jazz greats, wow!

[@MrCheke92]

Love the channel , good stuff thanks man!!

[@paulobianchi2577]

Great vídeo, Mr Jay 👏👏👏👏👏

[@MrJazzohjazz]

Your list is excellent .... I also loved to listen to Bud Shank, especially back in the 50's with Laurindo Almeida .... in the Brazilence LP's, Of course Art Pepper could be on anyone's list. John Park was also a wonderful soloist. We just lost Richie Cole who was heavily influence by Phil. Wonderful interpretations. Thanks.

[@JoMoPho]

SHANKS SPRANK A CLASSIC

[@Felicitysaxophonist]

I love your channel ! It´s definitely the best one when it goes to saxophone tutorials! My best wishes!

[@Navroze]

I am not a musician but a jazz enthusiast and this is priceless master class.. Thank you

[@gerardoortizmedrano6373]

Willie Smith was an extraordinary alto player unjust forgotten, great recordings with Jimmie Luncenford and Harry James bands and with JATP troupe

[@ABrandsma]

Indeed. He also joined Ellington's band for a short while. The veterans there were in shock, bacause he called rehearsals all the time.

[@gerardoortizmedrano6373]

@@ABrandsma yeah good point!! in the 50's Willie Smith was member of Duke' band replacing Johnny Hodges for a short time.

[@ABrandsma]

@@gerardoortizmedrano6373 It didn't last long however there is footage. Snader telescriptions 13003 has him soloing on Sophisticated Lady. After Willie left, Hilton Jefferson took over and then Hodges returned.

[@gerardoortizmedrano6373]

@@ABrandsma wow!! I did'n know that there was a vídeo clip of Willie Smith with Duke's band !! What a good point !! Thanks for sharing !!

[@michelestrozzi4300]

I love it, that Benny Carter is on your list! Do you know his version of „My one and only love“? Genius! Michael

[@marklomas6588]

Yeh good list and i can tell you truly love the music.. Well done loved it.

[@joerxworx7299]

Thanks a lot for this wonderful video !