Miles Davis 1951 at Sounders Studio Silver Gelatin Original TYPE I Photo by Popsie PSA/DNA

Miles Davis's recording sessions at Sounders Studios in New York City in January 1951 were pivotal moments in his career as he transitioned into the hard bop style that would define much of the 1950s jazz landscape. These sessions marked Davis's association with Prestige Records, a label that would release some of his most influential early work.During these sessions, Davis recorded tracks with a quintet featuring celebrated musicians like Sonny Rollins on tenor saxophone, Jackie McLean on alto saxophone, Walter Bishop Jr. on piano, Tommy Potter on bass, and Art Blakey on drums. This lineup, though short-lived, showcased Davis's ability to assemble top-tier talent and push the boundaries of bebop toward a more soulful and structured sound. Key tracks from these sessions include "Dig" and "My Old Flame," both of which highlighted Davis's lyrical phrasing and growing interest in modal approaches.The recordings were later compiled into the albumDig, released in 1956, and are often regarded as a precursor to the hard bop movement. These sessions solidified Davis's reputation as a leader in jazz innovation, laying the groundwork for his monumental achievements later in the decade.Offered is an original 8" x 10" Silver Gelatin photograph of Miles Davis in 1951 during one of his recording sessions at the Sounders Studios that was taken by William "Popsie" Randolph (with his stamp on the back).Super important crystal clear shot.Original Early Miles Davis photographs rarely enter the market.Encapsulated as a TYPE I original photograph by PSA/DNAThis original print derived from Popsie's personal archive and stamped on back with his iconic stamp that he used in the 1940s/50s. ORIGINAL photos of Jazz musicians are rarely seen, as opposed to promotional photos put out by the record companies.About photographer, William "Popsie" Randolph -William "Popsie" Randolph was a legendary photographer who captured the heart of mid-20th-century jazz and entertainment. Born in New York City in 1920, Randolph started in the Benny Goodman Orchestra before finding his calling behind the camera. From the 1940s to the 1980s, his lens documented the icons of jazz, Broadway, and pop, including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis Presley.Randolph's work stands out for its intimacy, capturing both the glamour and raw, unguarded moments of his subjects. Sought after by artists and labels like Columbia Records and RCA, his images graced album covers, newspapers, and magazines, making him a hidden yet influential force in music photography. Though he passed away in 1978, Randolph's photos remain a vital record of American music culture, inspiring generations of musicians and photographers.