Jazz

Out of all the music I talk about Jazz is the genre I listen to the most. I’ve popped a few albums on my chronological takes and a few singles as well. It’s such an overwhelming music for me. I wasn’t real late to the party.  I seriously started picking up albums when I was in my teens. It started to accelerate and away I went into the big world of Jazz. So much good stuff.

So where do I start with my first official Jazz take? I think I’ll start with one of my favorite musicians and human beings, Duke Ellington. I have more of his music than anyone else in my pile. His music struck a chord the first time I heard it and it continues to deliver so much great listening for me.  The music comes first. It introduced me to the man. He is one of my favorite interviews. His class, wicked sense of humor, humanity and just his love for what he does (did) pulled me in.

Yeah I do love the Duke. How do I pick an album to feature? Well pretty much close my eyes and grab one. He was there when this music first started to get going in the 20’s and was still doing it in the 70’s. He had some of the very best players in his band (and hard livers) and collaborated with his friend Billy Strayhorn to write some of the best music we have. He played with the young boppers and influenced so many people.  I can’t listen to Mingus or Monk without thinking of Ellington. Big bands, orchestras, small combos, solo it all works for me. Oh yeah before I forget, I love his piano playing too.

Is CB an Ellington expert? Not even close. Am I a lover of his music? Yes I am. Absolutely!