Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Miles Davis releases iconic album Kind of Blue

8/17/2026

22 5

Summary

Story summary

On August 17 1959, trumpeter Miles Davis issued *Kind of Blue*, a Columbia Records studio album recorded with a sextet that included John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, Bill Evans, Paul Chambers and Jimmy Cobb. The modal masterpiece reshaped jazz, selling millions and earning lasting critical acclaim as one of the genre’s greatest recordings.

1 of 1

Story summary

On August 17 1959, trumpeter Miles Davis issued *Kind of Blue*, a Columbia Records studio album recorded with a sextet that included John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, Bill Evans, Paul Chambers and Jimmy Cobb. The modal masterpiece reshaped jazz, selling millions and earning lasting critical acclaim as one of the genre’s greatest recordings.