Sun Ra (Herman Poole Blount)

Sun Ra, born Herman Poole Blount, was an innovative jazz composer and bandleader known for his experimental and avant-garde approach. He believed he was an alien from Saturn and incorporated cosmic themes, elaborate costumes, and futuristic sounds into his music. Leading his band, the Arkestra, he blended jazz, free improvisation, and electronic elements to create a unique, forward-thinking style. Sun Ra’s work challenged conventional music boundaries, emphasizing imagination, spirituality, and the universe’s mysteries, making him a pioneering figure in both jazz and experimental music.