| I think it would be rather bold to try to write to the history and current practices in and of jazz in one article. Either that or, hey, I just don't have the endurance or the attention span to attempt such a comprehensive undertaking and/or analysis. I can, however, offer a starting point that I think would provide a jazz newcomer to some delicious and EVER so exciting pieces of and moments in jazz music. I can in no way begin to know all of what is good and great in the vast discography of jazz which, by now is closing in on the century mark. You can look as far back as Scott Joplin, Jelly Roll Morton, and the heavyweights in blues and gospel, in vaudville and, yes, even the burlesque, and find some claim to the rich history and collective flavors that make up the stew we today enjoy as much as ever.I can tell you to go drink up and absorb yourself in the musical treasures of Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Thelonius Monk, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Oscar Peterson. I can drool on about the tones and talent of Billie "Lady Day" Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and even the sultry and sumptuous Bessie Smith or Ma Rainey - both of very early blues and jazz... |
