Stan Kenton, born on December 15, 1911 in Wichita, Kansas, was a controversial figure in the world of jazz music. He showed a passion for music at a young age and began playing the piano in his teens. Kenton toured with several large bands as a pianist, honing his skills and developing a unique style that would later become known as the Kenton Style.
In the mid-1940s, Kenton formed his own band, which he called The Wall of Sound. This band and its distinctive style caught the attention of music impresario Phil Spector, who later adapted the term for his own production methods. Kenton's progressive approach to jazz music set him apart from other orchestra leaders of his time.
One of Kenton's most daring experiments was his use of a mellophonium band from 1960 to 1963. Despite the challenges of keeping four mellophoniums in tune, Kenton's innovative spirit prevailed. His groundbreaking albums Adventures in Jazz and West Side Story, both products of these experiments, earned him two Grammy Awards.
Kenton married Ann Richards on October 18, 1955, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1961. Their daughter, Leslie, later wrote about her complicated relationship with her father in her book Love Affair, published in 2010. Despite accusations of racial prejudice, Kenton maintained close friendships with Count Basie and Duke Ellington, as well as collaborating with numerous African-American artists.
Stan Kenton's influence on the world of jazz music cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to orchestration and his pioneering spirit paved the way for future generations of musicians. Though his career was marked by controversy and challenges, Kenton's commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz music remains his enduring legacy.