Poster John Coltrane
John Coltrane performs music from 'A Love Supreme' at the Penthouse in Seattle in 1965.
Chuck Stewart/Universal Music Group
Rhapsody in Black

John Coltrane captures a spiritual journey in 'A Love Supreme'

Rhapsody in Black - John Coltrane's 'A Love Supreme'
DOWNLOAD

In 1964, the legendary John Coltrane entered Van Gelder Studios in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, to create his magnum opus, A Love Supreme. This monumental album, featuring a quartet of extraordinary musicians, including pianist McCoy Tyner, bassist Jimmy Garrison and drummer Elvin Jones, would solidify Coltrane's legacy as one of the greatest tenor saxophonists of all time.

A Love Supreme defies categorization, blending elements of jazz, spirituality and devotion into a transformative musical experience. Coltrane's profound spiritual journey, fueled by newfound love and a higher power, shines through the carefully crafted compositions. Each movement of the suite, from the enchanting Acknowledgement to the soul-stirring Psalm, carries its own emotional weight and message.

This nondenominational, pan-spiritual opus has left an indelible mark on the music world. Its influence continues to grow, inspiring countless musicians across genres. Join the journey and immerse yourself in the extraordinary musical legacy of John Coltrane's A Love Supreme.

Credits

Host: Vernon Neal

Producer: Dan Nass

Writers: Andrea Blain and Scott Blankenship

Executive Producer: Julie Amacher

Love the music?

Donate by phone
1-800-562-8440

Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.

Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.

YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.

More Ways to Give

Your Donation

$5/month
$10/month
$15/month
$20/month
$

Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

VIEW ALL EPISODES

Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

Pamela Z expands the boundaries of classical music
5:00
Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
Terence Blanchard is a legend of jazz, film music, opera and more

Terence Blanchard is a legend of jazz, film music, opera and more

In 2021, Terence Blanchard became the first Black composer to have an opera staged at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Whether it’s performing or composing jazz, film music and opera, he does it exceptionally well. Find out more in the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Tenor Lawrence Brownlee uplifts African American music and youth
5:00
Florence Price meets Frederick Stock

Florence Price meets Frederick Stock

Composer Florence Price dealt with many systemic barriers in her pursuit of musical greatness. Find out how her hard work paid off after she won a composition competition and formed a partnership with Chicago Symphony Orchestra conductor Frederick Stock.

5:00
Grammy-nominated cellist Seth Parker Woods pushes boundaries of classical music
5:00
Julius Eastman composed music that challenged oppressive stereotypes

Julius Eastman composed music that challenged oppressive stereotypes

Composer and pianist Julius Eastman’s personal philosophy was ‘to be what I am to the fullest.’ A graduate of the Curtis Institute, his music was highly acclaimed and challenged racist and homophobic stereotypes. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Miles Davis reinvented the jazz scene

Miles Davis reinvented the jazz scene

Jazz trumpeter Miles Davis redefined the genre in subtle and caustic ways. While he had great success he was always restless for innovation. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

5:00
Composer Jessie Montgomery uses music to connect with the world
5:00
Paul Robeson brought spirituals and Black history to the main stage
5:00
VIEW ALL EPISODES

About Rhapsody in Black

Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.

Subscribe to the podcast:  Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicTuneInRSS Feed

About Rhapsody in Black
YourClassical Radio
0:00
0:00