A visionary figure in American culture, Charles Mingus wielded enormous influence over not only jazz but also popular music. A prodigiously gifted composer, arranger, and bassist, Mingus drew from bop, gospel, blues, and classical composition for his work, which became complex improvisational workouts in the hands of his talented collective ensembles. Known equally for his fierce independent streak and fearsome temper, Mingus cultivated a unique approach to jazz during a four-decade career that had lasting impact on generations of musicians, from jazz players to rock acts.