Sonny Rollins, renowned as the "Saxophone Colossus," passed away at 95, leaving behind a legacy as one of the defining figures in jazz saxophone. His innovative and powerful improvisations cemented his place among the instrument's greats.

Sonny Rollins, the "Saxophone Colossus" and the last in a golden era of jazz greats, died on May 25. Aged 95, he was one of a handful of saxophone players who defined the instrument, a pantheon that includes Charlie Parker, Coleman Hawkins and John Coltrane. Rollins' often marathon, hard-blowing solos earned him a reputation as the greatest jazz saxophone improviser. FRANCE 24's Samy-Vicente Lacerda looks back on Rollins' life.