Known as ‘Sweet Poppa Lou,’ Donaldson blended the lyricism of swing-era hornblower Johnny Hodges with the quick-fingered athleticism of bebop architect Charlie Parker.Lou Donaldson, a pioneer of soul jazz, has passed away. Known as “Sweet Poppa Lou” – a reference to the distinctive, honeyed tone he pulled from his alto sax – Donaldson blended the lyricism of swing-era hornblower Johnny Hodges with the quick-fingered athleticism of bebop architect Charlie Parker. More than anything else, though, Donaldson viewed himself as a crowd-pleaser: His music’s deep, bluesy soulfulness and emotional directness allowed him to connect with a wider audience than many of...