Don Alias

“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.

“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.

About the Author Melanie Futorian has been a feature writer for Allaboutjazz.com, where she had her own column, “Cymbalism.” Her articles have also appeared in Dance Teacher Magazine, Dance Insider, and United Nations Society of Writers publication. She has been a camerawoman for the United Nations, CNN News, FOX News Channel, MTV, SNY. In addition, Melanie is a photographer for UNESCO, UNCA, Martha Graham Dance Company, the Limon Dance Company, Paul Taylor Dance Company, and major jazz musicians. Her photography was exhibited at The Jakmel Gallery in Miami, and can be seen in Allaboutjazz.com, as well as David Sanborn’s CD liner, “Time and the River.” Ms. Futorian was also a professional dancer for various New York companies such as Forces of Nature, Manhattan Opera Company, Haitian American Dance Theater, and Ballet America. Some of her teaching and choreography includes Alvin Ailey’s summer program, M.I.T.’s Dance Troupe, Fordham University, Harlem Village Academy and the movie “Creeporia.”