Even by the standards of a music that prizes individuality, Mr. Rollins stood out, as both a musician and a personality.
—The New York Times
Celebrating Sonny: A Tribute to Sonny Rollins
Featuring the Eric Alexander Quintet with special guest Nicholas PaytonWednesday—Sunday, June 24-28, 2026
Sets: 6:30pm + 8:30pm with additional 10:30pm (Friday-Saturday)SMOKE Jazz Club
2751 Broadway
New York, NY
Tix + Info: SMOKEjazz.com.
Eric Alexander – tenor saxophone
Nicholas Payton – trumpet David Kikoski – piano
Alexander Claffy – bass
Carl Allen – drums
Sonny Rollins, the iconic “Saxophone Colossus," was one of the most influential and distinctive voices in music. Across more than seven decades, his singular sound, boundless creativity, and adventurous spirit inspired generations of musicians. In this special tribute, acclaimed saxophonist Eric Alexander celebrates Rollins’ enduring legacy, leading an exceptional quintet featuring renowned trumpeter Nicholas Payton and a stellar rhythm section of pianist David Kikoski, bassist Alexander Claffy, and drummer Carl Allen.
Since emerging in the early ’90s, Alexander himself has been “one of the giants of the tenor sax,” according to All Music Guide, and “one of the finest bebop saxophonists in the world,” according to National Public Radio. He has built a substantial discography while frequently collaborating with his one-time teacher, the late Harold Mabern. In addition to leading his own groups, Alexander has worked notably with Pat Martino, Horace Silver, McCoy Tyner, George Coleman, Freddie Cole, and the cooperative sextet One for All. All About Jazz calls him “one of the more emotive and resourceful improvisers on the scene,” while DownBeat described him as “one of the most blazingly bad-assed saxophonists of his generation.”
For more information contact AMT Public Relations.
