Sonny Boy is a Sonny Rollins album released in 1956 on the Prestige label. It was recorded in a single session in September of that year, with a quartet that included Kenny Dorham on trumpet. Initial reception was positive, highlighting the saxophonist's maturity. This record is part of Rollins' prolific output in the 1950s.
The album's sound is classic hard bop, focusing on the interplay between tenor sax and trumpet. Notable tracks include 'Sonny Boy' and 'The House I Live In', showcasing Rollins' ability to improvise over catchy melodies. The rhythm section, with Max Roach on drums, provides a solid and dynamic foundation.
Although not one of Rollins' most famous albums, Sonny Boy is valued by collectors as a sample of his transition to a more personal style. Its legacy lies in capturing a key moment in the evolution of hard bop. The album has been reissued several times, maintaining its relevance among jazz enthusiasts.