Remembering Eric Dolphy (June 20, 1928 – June 29, 1964)

"So Long Eric" was written as part of Mingus’ continuing argument with Eric Dolphy about his decision to leave Mingus’ group and stay in Europe after their 1964 tour. (Other versions have the additional subtitle of “Don’t Stay Over There Too Long.”) Eric Dolphy’s death a few months later gives the title an additional sad resonance.

Eric Allan Dolphy Jr. (June 20, 1928 – June 29, 1964)

Photo Credit: Jan Persson/CDJ