This Is What I Do (Sonny Rollins album)

This album features Rollins performing with the likes of Clifton Anderson, Stephen Scott, Bob Cranshaw, Jack DeJohnette and Perry Wilson.^[1]

Professional ratings

Review scores
Source	Rating
AllMusic	[2]
The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings	[3]
Dallas Morning News	(B+)[4]
The Times	[5]

Thor Christensen of the Dallas Morning News, in a B+ review commented, "But while What I Do blazes no new trails, it's still a challenging work full of the mind-bending solos and striking melodies that have always marked Mr. Rollins' best work."^[4] Alex Henderson of Allmusic, in a 4/5 star review declared, "This Is What I Do falls short of essential, but it offers some nice surprises and is a rewarding addition to Rollins' huge catalog."^[2] Clive Davis of The Times, in a 4/5 star review proclaimed, "After a string of so-so releases, the good news is that his latest contains some of his earthiest playing in years. We all know that he can hurtle through the chord changes faster than a speeding bullet, but it is good to be reminded of just how soulful a musician he can be. There are times when he sounds as raw and bluesy as the recently departed Stanley Turrentine.^[5]

Gary Giddins would later state in 2002, "I think Sonny’s work of the last 20-25 years contains many of his greatest performances. As a recording artist, there was greater consistency in the '50s and in the '60s than later. But as a player, he has kept growing — his sound is so much more powerful and interesting now. And he’s made many great records...the new album, This Is What I Do, is tremendous."^[6] The Penguin Guide to Jazz in 4/4 star review remarked, "This Is What I Do is unmistakable, and great Sonny Rollins."^[3]

The album also won a Grammy for Best Jazz Instrumental Album.^[7]