Barney Wilen

Barney Wilen was a French jazz saxophonist known for his cool tone and lyrical approach on both the tenor and soprano saxophones. He rose to prominence in the 1950s, playing alongside major jazz figures like Miles Davis—most notably on the soundtrack to the 1958 film Ascenseur pour l'échafaud (Elevator to the Gallows). Wilen became a staple of the Paris jazz scene and collaborated with both American and European musicians throughout his career.

In addition to his work in traditional and bebop jazz settings, Wilen was also known for exploring other musical styles and experimenting with fusion and world music later in his career. His recordings span decades and reflect a wide-ranging musical curiosity, from hard bop to avant-garde. Despite periods of relative obscurity, he remained a respected figure among jazz aficionados and is remembered for his uniquely expressive playing and contributions to the post-war European jazz movement.

Genres

French Jazz

Free Jazz

Hard Bop

Jazz

Jazz Fusion

Smooth Jazz

Avant-garde Jazz

Bebop

Swing

Post-bop

Cool Jazz

Related Artists

Miles Davis

Stan Getz

Sonny Rollins

Dexter Gordon

Chet Baker

Lee Konitz

John Coltrane

Charlie Parker

Lester Young

Wayne Shorter

Art Pepper

Bud Powell

Latest Release

Dinkin' with Wilen

Barney Wilen

Album - 10 Tracks - Released February 21, 2025