The Forgotten Giant of the Tenor Saxophone. Who Was Don Byas?

Don Byas was a pioneering American jazz tenor saxophonist known for his lyrical style and powerful improvisations. Born in 1912, he rose to prominence in the swing era, playing with notable bands like those of Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Byas’s playing combined technical brilliance with emotional depth, influencing generations of saxophonists. He later moved to Europe, where he continued to perform and record extensively until his passing in 1972. Byas’s legacy endures through his recordings, showcasing his unique blend of bebop innovation and soulful expression on the tenor saxophone. Tenor Giant - A Tribute To Cannonball - Midnight at Mintons - Don Byas Collection 1939-61 - Savoy Jam Party: The Savoy Sessions -