Dexter Gordon was an American jazz saxophonist and actor, best known for his roles in films like “Round Midnight,” “Awakenings,” and “Stopforbud.”
Personal and Family Life
Born on February 27, 1923, in Los Angeles, California, Dexter was the son of Gwendoline and Frank Gordon. Throughout his life, he had three marriages and had a total of five children: Robin, Deirdre, Mikael, Benjamin, and Woody Louis Armstrong Shaw. His marriage to his last spouse, Maxine, lasted until his death in 1990.
Career Highlights
Dexter Gordon is considered one of the greatest jazz saxophonists of all time. From the 1940s to the 1980s, he performed with legendary musicians such as Louis Armstrong and Billy Eckstine. He gained fame not only for his music but also for his role in the film “Round Midnight,” where he played a character similar to himself, earning an Oscar nomination for his performance.
Death and Legacy
Dexter Gordon passed away on April 25, 1990, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, due to kidney failure. He was also suffering from laryngeal cancer at the time of his death. His innovative style and artistry greatly influenced many musicians, leaving a lasting impact on the world of jazz.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Awakenings | 1990-12-04 | Rolando |
| Round Midnight | 1986-01-09 | Dale Turner |
| Stopforbud | 1963-12-17 | Narrator (voice) |
| Jazz Icons: Dexter Gordon Live in ’63 and ’64 | 2007-09-04 | |
| Dexter Gordon at Jazzhus Montmartre in ’69 | Tenor Saxophone | |
| Avant minuit | 1986-01-01 | Self (archive footage) |
| Cool Cats | 2015-11-09 | Self (archive footage) |
| Dexter Gordon: More Than You Know | 1996-01-01 | Himself |