• Great Live Moments - Dexter Gordon

    April 2, 2008. Posted by Joshua Jackson.

    Add new comment | Filed under: Jazz Alive, Listening Post, Live Music

    Saxophonist Dexter Gordon is a favorite of many WBGO hosts. On any given day here, you will hear Dexter. WBGO recorded the Dexter Gordon Quartet at the Village Vanguard in 1983. We're featuring a song from that set, one that originally appeared on a 1962 release for Blue Note Records, A Swingin' Affair. It's called "Soy Califa." Sounds like a nutritious beverage, but the loose translation is "I am the Caliph," or "I am the King." Kinda like Louis XIV saying, "L'Etat C'est Moi," or "I am the state..."
    Dexter was definitely one of the kings, and his playing is sure to put you in a good state of mind.
    Introducing the quartet:
    Dexter Gordon, Tenor saxophone
    Kirk Lightsey, Piano
    David Eubanks, Bass
    Eddie Gladden, Drums

    Check out "Soy Califa," from the WBGO Archives.
    -Josh

    © 2008 WBGO

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