Jazz Musician. He was an innovative and revered drummer who helped further the "Free Jazz" and "Avant-Garde" style during the 1960's. He may be best remembered for his association with John Coltrane, contributing to the jazz legend's last known live recordings "The Olatunji Concert" (1967). Born Robert Patterson, he studied at Philadelphia's Granoff School of Music and played the trumpet and piano before becoming a percussionist. He would evolve into a seasoned performer as he gained experience with local musicians including Philly Joe Jones. Following his service in the United States Army, Ali resumed his career moving to New York City. In 1965, Ali joined Coltrane and was briefly paired with Elvin Jones. He played on the albums "Meditations" (1965) and "Interstellar Space" (1967). In 1973, he established his own jazz club Ali's Alley which became a fixture of the New York jazz scene until closing in 1979. Among the many other jazz artists he worked with include Alice Coltrane, Pharoah Sanders and Sonny Rollins. In addition, he led his own group The Rashied Ali Quintet and recorded nearly one dozen albums. He died from a heart attack.
Jazz Musician. He was an innovative and revered drummer who helped further the "Free Jazz" and "Avant-Garde" style during the 1960's. He may be best remembered for his association with John Coltrane, contributing to the jazz legend's last known live recordings "The Olatunji Concert" (1967). Born Robert Patterson, he studied at Philadelphia's Granoff School of Music and played the trumpet and piano before becoming a percussionist. He would evolve into a seasoned performer as he gained experience with local musicians including Philly Joe Jones. Following his service in the United States Army, Ali resumed his career moving to New York City. In 1965, Ali joined Coltrane and was briefly paired with Elvin Jones. He played on the albums "Meditations" (1965) and "Interstellar Space" (1967). In 1973, he established his own jazz club Ali's Alley which became a fixture of the New York jazz scene until closing in 1979. Among the many other jazz artists he worked with include Alice Coltrane, Pharoah Sanders and Sonny Rollins. In addition, he led his own group The Rashied Ali Quintet and recorded nearly one dozen albums. He died from a heart attack.
Bio by: C.S.
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