We probably all have our favourite saxophonists, but but what did the jazz world think of the musicians on the scene in 1959? Luckily, thereâs a good way to find out⊠The annual DownBeat Readers Poll has been a fascinating snapshot of the jazz scene since it first appeared in 1936, offering insights into the …
Jazz history has no shortage of heartbreak, addiction and triumph in the face of adversity, but the story of iconic jazz singer Billie Holiday is up there with the most captivating. In this article, we chart the rise and fall of âLady Dayâ â as she was often called â through some of her most …
Even if you arenât particularly familiar with Joe Zawinul, it would be a surprise if you havenât heard his music somewhere at some point. A hugely influential jazz musician, the Austrian keyboardist played a critical role in the development of jazz fusion throughout the 1970s and 80s. In this article, weâll take a look at …
Sonny Rollinsâ rendition of Thereâs No Business Like Show Business is a lively, virtuosic interpretation of the Irving Berlin classic, showcasing the saxophonistâs signature blend of wit, spontaneity, and technical mastery. The track appears on his 1956 album Work Time, recorded on December 2, 1955, and released on the Prestige label. The album features Rollins …
Trumpeter Clifford Brown, affectionately known as âBrownie,â was one of the brightest talents in jazz before his life was tragically cut short at just 25. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he wasnât a victim of the stereotypical âjazz lifeâ â Brownie famously avoided drugs and alcohol. Instead, he was taken in a car accident on …
There is a strong case for elevating June Christy into the very top echelon of iconic jazz singers alongside Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Ella Fitzgerald. Quite why this has never happened is a mystery, as the evidence to support this claim is readily available in Christyâs recorded legacy. Perhaps because her style was never …
With her light and airy vocals, delicate piano style and famous wit on stage, itâs no wonder that Blossom Dearie was a club favourite â not to mention something of a âmusicianâs musicianâ. But scratch below the surface and we discover the stories that made up an artist whose place in the history of jazz …
Aside from being one of the most inventive musicians of all time, Charlie Parker was known for his quick sense of humour. In one of only two pieces of video footage known to exist of Bird, heâs seen laughing as Coleman Hawkins attempts to mime to a pre-recorded solo. As the clip comes to an …
Want to learn how to play drums? Whether youâre staring at your first drum kit or are simply looking for some guidance on how to start, weâve enlisted the help of award-winning British drummer & educator David Ingamells to give you the lowdown on everything from the best drum brands for beginners, to the triple …
At first glance, the story of Art Pepper, who passed away at the age of 56, might echo the familiar narrative of a âvictim of the jazz lifeâ. Yet, a closer look reveals a tale of resilience and remarkable talent, overshadowing the tribulations with a legacy of incredible music. In this article, we dive beyond …