James Chance

James Chance was an American saxophonist, vocalist, and bandleader associated with the late 1970s New York no wave scene. Leading groups including the Contortions, he combined frenzied free jazz saxophone, aggressive vocals, punk energy, and funk-based rhythms to create a confrontational, abrasive sound and intense live performances; his work helped bridge downtown jazz experimentation with punk and funk aesthetics and was influential within underground experimental music circles.