Paul Haines

Experimental Canadian Poet and Lyricist

Paul Haines was a Canadian-born poet and jazz lyricist known for his collaboration with various musicians and composers in the avant-garde jazz scene. He is most renowned for his work on the experimental jazz opera "Escalator over the Hill," which was a collaboration with composer Carla Bley and trumpeter Michael Mantler. The album, released in 1971, is often cited as a landmark in the fusion of jazz, rock, and avant-garde music. Haines contributed the libretto to this ambitious project, which featured a wide array of musicians from different backgrounds. His work is characterized by its poetic complexity and has been praised for its originality and depth. Beyond "Escalator over the Hill," Paul Haines's influence in the world of jazz and experimental music is recognized by his ability to bridge the gap between poetry and sound.