The Soulful Jazz of Cannonball Adderley
Dorchester Corn Exchange
Music
2 Oct 2026
Friday 2 October
The Soulful Jazz of Cannonball Adderley. Julian "Cannonball" Adderley was an American jazz alto saxophonist whose playing was infused with an infectious gospel tinged earthiness. His playing has been a great inspiration to saxophonist Will Paley who will be presenting Adderley's music accompanied by pianist Philip Clouts, bassist John Donnelly and drummer Coach York.
Cannonball Adderley is perhaps best remembered for the 1966 soul jazz single "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy", which became a major crossover hit on the pop and R&B charts. Adderley worked with Miles Davis, first as a member of the Davis sextet, appearing on the seminal records 'Milestones' (1958)and 'Kind of Blue' (1959), and then on his own 1958 album 'Somethin' Else'. He collaborated with numerous other musicians during his career, notably saxophonist John Coltrane and vocalist Nancy Wilson.
Will Paley is a highly sought after saxophonist based in Exeter. He performs regularly around the UK and has played at some of the country's most prestigious venues including The Barbican Centre, The Vortex, The 100 Club, Ronnie Scotts, Westminster Abbey and 10 Downing Street. Will Paley will be highlighting many of the tunes that Cannonball Adderley made famous, including 'Jive Samba', Work Song' and of course 'Mercy,Mercy, Mercy'.
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