Melanie Futorian

“Don Alias” recounts the journey of a great, American percussionist who set a new standard in percussion in a multitude of musical genres from Afro Cuban to jazz. From the 1950s into the new millennium, his performances ranged from playing on the streets of Harlem to recording the groundbreaking Miles Davis album, “Bitches Brew.” This book is derived from our many fascinating conversations, excerpts from his personal journal entries, as well as my time accompanying him on tour. These vignettes, often humorous and entertaining, document his rise to prominence from humble beginnings. They record his adventures and collaboration with some of the most influential musicians of our time including Dizzy Gillespie, Nina Simone, Miles Davis, Elvin Jones, Tony Williams, Jaco Pastorius, and Joni Mitchell.