Albert Ayler

About

Jazz saxophonist who pushed the limits of the genre in the 1960s, creating many influential free jazz sounds.

Before Fame

He played with the U.S. Army Band, but could not find much work after his enlistment ended.

Trivia

His renegade style was only appreciated decades later. A film about his life was made in 2008.

Family Life

He grew up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio and was taught the saxophone by his father.

Associated With

Early on, he was called "Bird" after his resemblance in sound to Charlie Parker.