Charles Mingus bestrode the world of jazz like a colossus during a lifetime spent unleashing a torrent of artistic creativity. A turbulent and passionate personality - composer, pianist and exponent of the double bass - Mingus understood the linear heritage of his music, while rejoicing in the freedom to embrace new ideas and concepts.

As a composer his influences included his personal idol Duke Ellington - which can often be heard on Mingus Ah Um, which is acclaimed as one of Mingus' finest albums.