Wayne Shorter

Wayne Shorter (1933-2023) was an American saxophonist and composer, one of the most influential figures in modern jazz. With a career spanning more than six decades, Shorter was known for his unique style, which fused elements of modal jazz, bebop, and experimental jazz, becoming one of the great innovators of the saxophone in contemporary music.

He began his career in the 1950s and, in the 1960s, joined the Miles Davis quintet, where he was instrumental in the creation of albums such as E.S.P. and Miles Smiles. Shorter later formed his own band, Weather Report, which pioneered jazz fusion, combining jazz with rock, funk, and electronic music.

In addition to his work with Davis and Weather Report, Shorter recorded numerous albums as a leader and collaborated with artists such as Herbie Hancock, Art Blakey, and Joni Mitchell. His legacy as a composer and saxophonist remains fundamental to the evolution of contemporary jazz.