Miles Davis
1926-1991 · American (Alton, Illinois/New York) · Jazz
Known for: The coolest musician who ever lived - pioneered cool jazz, modal jazz, and fusion, reinventing himself every decade
Miles Davis was cool incarnate. His whispery voice, turned-back stance on stage, and dark sunglasses became iconic. He pioneered cool jazz, modal jazz (Kind of Blue), and jazz-rock fusion (Bitches Brew), reinventing himself with every album.
He was abusive, volatile, and addicted to cocaine and heroin at various points. He was also fearless about change. Kind of Blue is the best-selling jazz album of all time.
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