Threadgill is notable as one of "modern" or "avant garde" jazz's most unique composers. His dense, elaborate, multi-layered music is often strictly scored, in contrast to the loose, improvistaory feel of much jazz. Elements of traditional African music, Mexican music, folk music and opera are often as prominetly featured as traditional jazz and blues music.
Threadgill often assembles groups with distinctive names and unusual instrumentation. His Sextette was actually a seven piece ensemble, typically Threadgill, two drummers, double bass, cello, trombone and trumpet; Threadgill variously said he considered the two drummers one unit, or that he considered himself a conductor as much as a performer. Very Very Circus was Threadgill, a French Hornist , two tubas and two electric guitars.
Threadgill has recorded or performed with Anthony Braxton, Muhal Richard Abrams, David Murray and Bill Laswell. He was married to singer Cassandra Wilson.
Threadgill is a member of the AACM.