Charlie Haden was a jazz double bass player, bandleader, composer and educator whose career spanned more than fifty years. He passed away in July 2014
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Website: www.charliehadenmusic.com
History of Charlie Haden
Early life and influences
Charlie Haden was born on August 6, 1937, in Shenandoah, Iowa. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a country musician and his mother a singer. Haden’s early exposure to music included listening to country and folk music, which deeply influenced his musical style. At the age of two, he began singing on his parents’ radio show, which showcased his talent from a young age. However, his journey took a significant turn when he contracted polio at the age of 15, which left him with a weak left hand, leading him to pursue the bass instead of the guitar.
Musical career beginnings
Haden moved to Los Angeles in the early 1950s, where he studied music at Los Angeles City College. He was exposed to the burgeoning jazz scene, becoming acquainted with influential musicians such as Ornette Coleman, with whom he would later collaborate. In 1959, he co-founded the Ornette Coleman Quartet, a pivotal group in the development of free jazz. Haden’s innovative playing and ability to blend melody with harmony helped define the genre, and he gained recognition for his distinctive sound.
Developing a unique style
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Haden expanded his musical horizons by collaborating with various artists across genres. He became known for his lyrical, emotive bass playing, often incorporating folk and world music influences. Haden’s work with the Liberation Music Orchestra, which he founded in 1969, showcased his political and social consciousness. The group’s music blended jazz improvisation with political themes, reflecting Haden’s beliefs about social justice.
Notable collaborations
Haden worked with numerous legendary musicians throughout his career, including jazz icons such as Keith Jarrett, Pat Metheny, and Paul Motian. His collaborations spanned a wide range of genres, from traditional jazz to avant-garde and beyond. Haden was also a member of the classic jazz trio “The Haden Triplets,” formed with his twin daughters, Rachel and Tanya, which celebrated their family’s musical heritage.
Later career and legacy
In the 1980s and 1990s, Haden continued to push musical boundaries, collaborating with musicians like Joshua Redman and Brad Mehldau. He also explored his love for traditional American music, releasing several albums that showcased his roots in folk and country. Haden’s dedication to music and his commitment to social causes made him a respected figure in the jazz community.
Charlie Haden passed away on July 8, 2014, leaving behind a rich legacy as a pioneering bassist and composer. His innovative approach to jazz, his emotional depth in playing, and his commitment to artistic expression have influenced generations of musicians. Haden’s contributions to the world of music continue to be celebrated and appreciated, making him a lasting figure in the history of jazz.