Inside The Myth

“Charles Mingus, a musical mystic, died in Mexico, January 5, 1979, at the age of 56. He was cremated the next day. That same day, 56 sperm whales beached themselves on the Mexican coastline, and were removed by fire. These are the coincidences that thrill my imagination. Sue, at his request—carried his ashes to India and finding a place at the source of the Ganges River, where it ran turquoise and glinting with large gold carp, released him, with flowers and prayers at the break of a new day. Sue and the holy river Will send you to the saints of jazz—To Duke and Bird and Fats—And any other saints you have.”
Joni Mitchell, from the liner notes to Mingus(1979)

My favorite photo of Charles Mingus is of him sitting at his piano, wearing an animal print, silk-dressing gown. He holds the phone