When you consider that critics have been writing about him for over 60 years, it can seem as if there’s nothing left to say about Sonny Rollins. But there is – because over the decades, the “Saxophone Colossus” has never stopped growing or adding to his sound.
More than once, Rollins has stepped away from his adoring audiences for extended sabbaticals: He’d decide he wasn’t good enough, take a couple of years off to practice and study, and come back when he felt ready. He’s taking some time off again now, but that may be due more to the fact that he’s 83 than a desire to rethink his music. In the meantime, Rollins has been leaking some live recordings for a series he calls “Road Shows.”
The latest installment, Road Shows, Vol. 3, comes out Tuesday. He spoke with NPR’s Arun Rath about the value of time away from the studio, and why, when you make your living improvising, a little spiritual practice can be a big help. Hear the radio version at the audio link, and read more of their conversation below.