Recorded: 1933-1979
In defining (or trying to define) "jazz," the dictionary uses such words as "propulsive," "diatonicism," and "chromaticism." Herbie Hancock said "Jazz is about being in the moment." Duke Ellington felt that "Jazz is a matter of thoughtful creation, not mere unaided instinct." And B.B. King believed that "Jazz is the big brother of the blues." But maybe Louis Armstrong said it best: "If you have to ask what Jazz is, you'll never know."
Here are some of the greatest jazz artists of the 20th century in 17 rare, vintage performances, from pioneers such as Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Louis Armstrong, to Lionel Hampton, Dizzy Gillespie, and Coleman Hawkins at mid-century, and on to more progressive musicians such as Grover Washington Jr., Chick Corea, and Herbie Hancock, just to name a few.
Many of these numbers were performed live on TV in the '60s and '70s and have never been available before. As a special bonus, there's All This Jazz, a fascinating overview featuring commentary from jazz greats Red Holloway, Ernie Watts and Gerald Wilson.
Extra:
* Interview with legendary artists |
