Chet Baker

Chet Baker, a prominent figure in the West Coast cool jazz scene of the 1950s, was known for his restrained trumpet style and captivating looks. Despite his musical talent, his career was overshadowed by struggles with drug addiction. Baker's early life in Glendale, CA, was marked by a musical upbringing, with his father introducing him to the trumpet at a young age. He gained recognition in the jazz world through collaborations with notable musicians like Stan Getz and Gerry Mulligan.

Following his solo career, Baker's popularity soared with the release of albums like "Chet Baker Sings." However, his addiction issues began to impact his professional life in the 1960s, leading to a series of arrests and incarcerations. Despite sporadic comebacks, Baker's career declined, and he faced personal challenges, including a severe beating in the mid-1960s. His life came to a tragic end in 1988 when he passed away in Amsterdam from a fall after using heroin and cocaine. Baker's legacy lives on through his music and the acclaimed documentary "Let's Get Lost," shedding light on his tumultuous life and career.