Reminiscences

A great musician, Dave Brubeck, died today. These magnificent tunes were never posted because they are well known, and, so, there was no need to promote them. Today, there is.

Dave Brubeck

10/21/13 (link repaired)

Take Five (Subtle, thoughtful jazz.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=vmDDOFXSgAs

And, a musically different tune in a live concert at Carnegie Hall...

Blue Rondo A La Turk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFLIL...yer_detailpage


12/15

Post 170 has great tunes by Al Jarreau. Post 173 has music by Kurt Elling. This post honors Dave Brubeck's music.

Put all that together and you get a collaboration of both singers that is fun and enjoyable to see and hear.

Take Five (8/10/23 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/lrdqC3zckEo

‘Blue Xmas (To Whom It May Concern)’ by Bob Dorough & Miles Davis

By: Kevin Gosztola

Bob Dorough is a cool bepop, jazz pianist and singer, who collaborated with jazz legend Miles Davis to produce, “Blue Xmas (To Whom It May Concern).” He is known for working with Allen Ginsberg and he also once performed in between Lenny Bruce sets.

The song may not be as much of a protest song as previous selections featured this week, however, its lyrics have an anti-commercialism theme.

Dorough sings about “all the waste, all the sham, all the haste and plain old bad taste” of Christmas. The “sidewalk Santy Clauses” are too fake—”much, much too thin.” And they wear “fancy rented costumes, false beards and big fat phony grins.” The poor are out on the streets and, meanwhile, everyone is like “Gimme gimme gimme gimme” and “fill my stocking up.”

This is the time of year “when the greedy give a dime to the needy,” but Dorough doesn’t find that to be all that genuine at all. People trade gifts that don’t matter. As far as Dorough is concerned, he doesn’t care for that “fal-de-ral.” There are lots of “hungry, homeless children” and he just does not get the point of spending time addressing “twenty zillion Christmas cards.”

The final lyric that he sings, “I hope yours is a bright one, but for me it bleeds,” is steeped in cynicism. It depends on interpretation. This could be regarded as a standard expression of, “Bah humbug!” but it seems to be much more complex. Dorough enjoyed Christmas once upon a time, but now he feels engulfed by an ocean of phony Christmas spirit.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqZ1O...layer_embedded

“Children, settle down. I want to tell you a story about a man, a very scary man.

His name is Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. That’s because he screams sometimes. One of the things he does is carry a skull on a stick. Don’t be afraid. I don’t think the skull belongs to anyone we know. He also lies in a coffin but he is not really dead. Anyway, when he screams he makes scary faces. Don’t be afraid. I don’t think he means to hurt anyone. He sometimes has teeth chattering on his piano and a hand severed from a body that moves. I don’t recognize them so don’t be afraid. He has a bone in his nose, too. Now that’s scary, but don’t be afraid. I’m not…at least I don’t think I am?

Let’s do this. I’ll play something that shows what this man is like. Try not to cry. If you don’t run away, I’ll play another one. Some are funny and some are…well, more for adults. I really don’t want to explain them, so don’t ask.

Here’s the first one by Screamin' Jay Hawkins. It’s called…

I Put A Spell On You” (The Screamin’ song that established him as a 'mainstream, family-oriented talent')

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=7kGPhpvqtOc


4/12/17

Hawkins was a great put-on, exaggerating his blackness, and using his performances to give pokes-in-the-eye to those who he knew would be pissed-off by what he did. His talent (and comedic aptitude) was, unfortunately, mostly obscured by all of the racial hatred. It was the prevailing zeitgeist at the time (and can still be.)

His voice is more than respectable and his song choices are both playful and enjoyable as my original comments indicate.

I have added some covers of his I Put A Spell On You to show how the music was great aside from his (purposely humorous) treatment of it. I have done a fair amount of research about him, and as I said initially, I still like the guy. His life must have had some personal fulfillment but likely a lot of ridicule and vicious hostility too. Very sad.

The great...

Nina Simone

I Put A Spell On You (a more straightforward treatment)

https://youtu.be/xDprYZ-tgiA


Katie Melua

I Put A Spell On You

https://youtu.be/q-_gr4rVEwE


Joss Stone

I Put A Spell On You (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/VEcBfyULsCc
---

Now, here’s one that shows what a nice, sensitive, humble man he was.

I Am The Cool

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gWQQ...yer_detailpage


Maybe (Don’t let this frighten you. It’s a love song)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=hTVJF5ORuLQ


Shut Your Mouth When You Sneeze (Helpful suggestions to avoid health problems) (10/16/16 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/jPPgR4porbs

Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda (A poignant attempt to improve a relationship)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_9km...yer_detailpage


I’m Lonely (Another sad song that shows how sensitive and caring he really was)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSl9n...yer_detailpage


Portrait Of A Man (This is…well…great) 7/17/21 link repaired

https://youtu.be/MX-DKmIWrJI

3/17/13 Tear Drops (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/9-81iVZOP0s

3/17/13 Give It A Break

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nyi2h...yer_detailpage

3/17/13 Don't Deceive Me

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RExov...yer_detailpage

3/17/13 Alligator Wine (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/MI3YzuzwK44
__________________

I love this guy.

Bonnie Raitt’s father, John Raitt, was a well-known singer and starred in film and Broadway musicals. Some would consider Bonnie a pop star but the core of her music is blues. Her lovely voice, stage presence and slide-guitar are unique and instantly recognizable.

Her shows have frequently showed respect and appreciation for older blues artists by having them appear with her. Sippie Wallace was one of her favorites as was John Lee Hooker.

The first tune is from her earlier period and is a cover of a Del Shannon hit from a time when music was frequently playful. The arrangement is great with some blues influences added by the harp player.

She may be a somewhat (unfairly) underrated performer but it’s clear she’s an important part of our musical scene.

Bonnie Raitt

Runaway (watch her harp player's contributions)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPzcZ...yer_detailpage


Pride And Joy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXb8-oYFv4U


No Gettin’ Over You (with Keb Mo)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=0iMadZk9o_U


At Bonnie’s induction into the RRHF

Thing Called Love

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vqrQ...yer_detailpage


Love Me Like A Man

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXVoO...yer_detailpage


I Will Not Be Broken (this song is very affecting)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_FcA...yer_detailpage


BB King with Bonnie Raitt

Night Life

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQJN8...yer_detailpage


12/16/13

In post 211, Little Milton does Grits Ain't Groceries. Here he does it with Bonnie Raitt. Great.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=tGS2mSx4ags


Here are a few more examples of great female blues, R&B and soul singers.


Ann Peebles

I Can’t Stand The Rain (8/13/19 repaired link)

https://youtu.be/g5Rjo_imHDE


12/28/15

One more from the wonderful Ann Peebles in a live performance.

I Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody's Home

https://youtu.be/cJqAaQdhDbk


And, a BOGO deal (because I like this tune) that is not necessarily fair to Ms. Peebles studio version because of the energy in a live performance. Otherwise, it's just as good.

Tina Turner's live version

I Can't Stand The Rain (2/23/16 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/FI_VKMWa6YE


2/3/17

Sam Moore and Wynonna (another great version)

I Can't Stand The Rain

https://youtu.be/_ye90VFvjCA


This one is great!

Bettye Lavette

Let Me Down Easy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFpFx...yer_detailpage


2/24/17

This is a somewhat recent appearance by Ms. Lavette with Jools Holland. She does Let Me Down Easy in a slower tempo, and in a sad, wrenching, plaintive way that surprised me on the first hearing. I listened four more times and it made its mark on me.

Betty Lavette

Let Me Down Easy

https://youtu.be/ZMUjsj-n_FY


2/24/17

Here is another bluesy tune in a similar style to the one above. Great.

Betty Lavette

I'm Not The One

https://youtu.be/n72JRd9YVZc


12/12/18

Betty Lavette

Things Have Changed (ain't that the truth)

https://youtu.be/e2K8HdJ3JtI


Now, get ready for… a woman that is so...damn...

Cee Cee James

House Of The Blues

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p89Hh...yer_detailpage


Can't have only one Cee Cee...

2/7/13 Black Raven

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=KsouqwDUQCk


10/24/14

Cee Cee James

Done Love Wrong

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UuTqzuhZvLw


11/19/14

Cee Cee James

100 Ways To Make Love

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExM6spOT6Ys


2/4/17

Cee Cee James

Low Down Where The Snakes Crawl (this is so heavy, so blue, so damn sweet, so...)

https://youtu.be/xB9l6J9er04


2/3/17

Joanna Connor

Walkin' Blues (make sure you're belted by 1:15) (10/28/17 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/jBPCrU6q1qg7/11/17[/B]


Didn't know this group. Learned it is composed of great musicians from other bands, some in this thread (two looked very familiar.) The comments will explain. This tune was essentially the signature of Junior Wells, a hard driven', harp playin', blues legend.

The Healers

Messin' With The Kid

6/7/20 Deleted on YT


This singer was promoted by Earth, Wind and Fire when she debuted. This is a beautiful song made even better by the arrangement and her soaring voice.

Deneice Williams

Free (5/9/19 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/OlLrn6AVV2s


1/3/16

Time passes and changes everyone and that process cannot be stopped. Knowing that, our expectations are sometimes fearful because we don't want to lose a good memory to what has become a new reality.

The following event is recent and this excerpt from it symbolizes one of the reasons I started a thread called Reminiscences. It should touch you regardless of your musical tastes. Carole King's (who co-wrote the song with Gerry Goffin) reactions are the best of what makes us human.

The still great Aretha Franklin.

You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/efIAM5dzuDs


4/1/17

I am continually pleased to discover amazing musical talent I never knew before. It's a passion.

Here is someone who is a very impressive singer and a grammy nominee. Her onstage energy and mannerisms are fun to watch. I'm now a fan.

Janiva Magness

You Were Never Mine (evidence of her great voice and poignant sensitivity with lyrics)

https://youtu.be/3tYH7tLMbts


4/1/17

Janiva Magness

There It Is and I Thought I Knew You (a delightful, fun and delicious performance)

https://youtu.be/a0ZSJAkbnV8


4/1/17

Janiva Magness and Ronnie Earl

Little By Little

https://youtu.be/vUs-aVgxEa0


4/16/17

Janiva Magness

I Won't Cry

https://youtu.be/L7m1n5IFmyA


4/16/17

Janiva Magness

Do I Move You

https://youtu.be/n93XmXVM82A


4/17/17

Janiva Magness

Slipped, Tripped And In Love

https://youtu.be/sc1LtiV5xLI

This is a musical mélange without a theme; still (very) tasty - but less filling.


A reminder of Brazil’s recent Carnival.

Dende & Hahahaes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=pv9vcQQ_huM


‘Nawlins’, aka NOLA, is known for food, music and attitude. The music is exemplified by the Nevilles but there are many other representatives.

6/2/14 Listening to Landreth now and read this in the comments:
"as great as the neville brothers version of this is, it doesn't touch sonny's. this is so new orleans i'm afraid i'm going to have a hangover tomorrow morning".

That's clever, funny - and true. LOL

Sonny Landreth

Congo Square

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sloap...yer_detailpage


World Away (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/GXOyMWmyXE0


9/7/14

John Hiatt & Sonny Landreth

Riding With The King

https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...&v=aGt0uAC9FIE


9/7/14

Sonny Landreth & Eric Clapton

Promised Land

https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...&v=MENVyieB8rY


Amos Lee

Windows Are Rolled Down

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=qDOcbMic6mI


These sounds are reminiscent of Willie and Natalie.

The Waifs

Highway One

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6s0sO...yer_detailpage


A top blues musician/singer who’s great in person. I know.

Jimmy Johnson

You Don’t Know What Love Is

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=dEv94vups2Q


3/18/13

Jimmy Johnson

My Baby By My Side (No 'gut-bucket' here. Rx prn: Try a dark room and this on a loop).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQeGw...yer_detailpage


7/22/15

Jimmy Johnson (2/2/20 link repaired - if you like blues don't miss this)

As The Years Go Passing By

https://youtu.be/i5wA3q-FamA


Here’s a fantastic soul singer who was also great in person. I know this, too.

Another loss on Jan 08, 2016

Otis Clay

The Woman Don’t Live Here No More

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=PxYP-kYkwmA


*10/12/15 original version is back.

*Since I’ve Been Loving You (watch out, this is dynamite)

https://youtu.be/RJ5k79uMgqk


Here is another by the great...

Otis Clay

You Hurt Me For The Last Time (8/10/23 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/GWJl_NvzsPQ


11/23/14

Another powerful performance - which is all he does.

Otis Clay

I Can Take You To Heaven Tonight

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlGk3Ea3x84


Bo Diddley, Muddy Waters and Little Walter

My Babe

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=q_BNz_B1PNg


The original by Elmore James is in post 211, but don’t miss this.

Howlin’ Wolf

Dust My Broom

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=ZEgGslcXXL0


Cannonball Adderley doing a soulful tune that became a classic.

Mercy, Mercy, Mercy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRrFW...yer_detailpage


11/22/13

What was here previously, Ry Cooder, The Healer, was deleted for 'copyright reasons'. What to replace it with?...hmmm...let's see...a very beautiful Mexican song, that reminds me of a tall, slender, gorgeous, Mexican girl in San Antonio I saw occasionally walking in town with friends on weekends many years ago. We smiled at each other after a while. I stopped one of her friends once to try to meet her. She spoke no English, I learned. I seem to remember her name was Maria.

This song was popular then as it has been for a long time.

Nice memory...and therefore, my decision.

Ry Cooder

Maria Elena

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=AszqfR6as8k


Great music with a surprise.

Buddy Guy with...

Quinn Sullivan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ix4TN...yer_detailpage


Sometime later Buddy Guy with...

Quinn Sullivan

Buddy’s Blues

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4xVk...yer_detailpage


These are profoundly beautiful songs with incredible arrangements plus a great singer who does them extraordinarily well. Magnificent.

Jose James

Little Bird (8/10/23 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/4nN29dxkYic


Desire (5/16/19 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/ylqA5a3335k


Trouble (12/10/13 link replaced)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...FuTWB5CoBeauty


The Dreamer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=Ctn36m_0Q_c


9/7/14

Moanin'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...&v=cZ9XnEDvQl0


9/7/14

Beauty

https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...&v=qPYwyIQQIng


Rhythmic guitars played as you’ve probably never heard them. Not what you might expect, especially from the ‘bouncy’, talented, adorable Gabriela. This is beautiful, passionate, stirring music.

Rodrigo Y Gabriela

Tamacun

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pE8Qt...yer_detailpage


Santo Domingo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xi0F...yer_detailpage


Orion

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfYeS...yer_detailpage


10/22/14

Hanuman

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENBX_v1Po1Y


Wet Willie

Keep On Smilin'

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=tg0BNTebcbY

We just lost another great artist, Richie Havens.

I have said about others, like Gil Scott-Heron, that to be able to entertain and educate is the most glorious accomplishment a musician can attain. Those in authority rarely tell us what we need to know, but, fortunately, we have others that help us. Havens, when using socially-aware lyrics was one of them. His distinctive voice, style and passion made great songs even better. He will be deeply missed.

Richie Havens

Freedom/Motherless Child (12/28/15 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/6tPb38QTbHg


This great song was a hit for Havens.

Here Comes The Sun

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0e9Y...yer_detailpage


One More Day

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=7Zk1VrU_wPM


What About Me?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UztdW...yer_detailpage


Sugar Plum (10/21/13 link repaired)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=-y6MnB2A5Fo


And Dylan’s classic…

All Along The Watchtower

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmEk6...yer_detailpage


Just Like A Woman (2/8/17 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/-9pgx3zSrDQ


I Can’t Make It Anymore

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpfpF...yer_detailpage


11/23/14

This is great!

Hands Of Time (8/17/16 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/mxUoFVoi8Xs

It's Monday, a night known for being "blues night".

Many musicians took blues music and adapted it for themselves. One group that admitted it was the Rolling Stones.

Muddy Waters years ago owned the Checkerboard Lounge in Chicago, and one night, the Stones were in town and showed up. Here is a taste of what happened. There were many other well-known musicians also there: Buddy Guy, Lefty Dizz, and Junior Wells (harmonica).

The complete show is available on YouTube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=bpX7OhkWC-o

Let's see... it's still Monday, so let's have a contest. This clip has some of the most well-known blues musicians in the country. Name all of them and get an award from ... well, see the moderator.

Sweet Home Chicago

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=ZEmvBdRLg4k


So much blues-oriented music...so little time.

Steve Winwood & Eric Clapton (2/2/20 link repaired)

Can't Find My Way Home

https://youtu.be/yTbz-PGi6-o


9/7/14

Steve Winwood & Eric Clapton (2/2/20 link repaired)

Voodoo Chile (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/q6xVIyW5VbY


11/1/14

The great Jimi Hendrix with a song he wrote.

Little Wing (2/2/20 link repaired - my original post removed by YT - this is the only Hendrix version to be found now)

https://youtu.be/R2MI0tTRKfs


11/24/14

Derek And The Dominos version.

Little Wing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLPHz8KT9No


10/23/13

Staying with the Chicago theme (I live in the Okefenokee) try this for unrestrained funk, joy, and respect for the 'Hawk'.

Bobbi Humphrey

Chicago, Damn

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=Dyf2naIPD9g


11/15/13

Ladies and Gents...tonight we have something special. An all-star lineup never seen anywhere. There is a $20.00 cover and well worth it...plus a two drink minimum. It's cheap at double the price.

So go in, have a good time...and, y'all come back, you hear!

Why I Sing The Blues

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=vnlwxS-36AU

Leading off are two songs from years past that have incredible hooks. Both have something in common and to another coming up in this post.

Ace

How Long (11/29/19 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/Vo_GMMLULXw


Squeeze

Tempted (studio version)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=D8LI-XtOlxA

Tempted (live with David Sanborn and some brief silliness by Jools Holland)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=OrgiQlUeutg


Ohne Filter is a well-produced German television program originating in Baden-Baden. Through the years they have showcased a number of American bands and some programs are seen in this thread.

Mike & The Mechanics lead singer, Paul Carrack, was with both Ace and Squeeze. He wrote “How Long”. Here is M&Ms great live version.

(12/2/13 - Spread the word. If you liked Paul Carrack's organ solo in this song, you might like pg 20, post 197, especially my recent post of Barbara Dennerlein's music. The other music is also great. Try it. If you like it, I get a commission.)

Mike & The Mechanics

How Long (11/9/15 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/9S-zW5dgeWs


A sign that you really like a song is that you like almost or every version you hear. Or maybe it's not that – maybe it's ...mania. Anyway, here is another version. All are obviously different in some ways. Did I mention that this song has a tremendous hook?

Recorded in Air Studios in London.

Paul Carrack

How Long

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=nJX_VRr4F2M


8/22/16

Paul Carrack & Eric Clapton doing a great song. See if you recognize it.

https://youtu.be/gahUbXoUhEc


12/1/13

The same musicians that performed "How Long" above at Air Studios in London did this. A great song very well done.

Paul Carrack

Over My Shoulder

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=pOJ5dDHxLrM


Mike & The Mechanics

*Over My Shoulder (1/21/16 - this version was the original here but was deleted by YT. Subsequent replacement deleted for original. It's great and identical except for the subtitles.)

Over My Shoulder

https://youtu.be/EYGi-CpbVAs


Mike & The Mechanics

Silent Running

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=DCUmmvWHS2Q


10/5/14

It never stops...great music from wonderful artists. Just need to know where to look. The great Paul Carrack with...

Don't Dream It's Over

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=Z7PBxQABebE


2/3/17

Paul Carrack

Seems like every song he does has a unique hook. The melody, harmony, tempo and lyrics here are tops. BTW, I've been known to ask myself this question occasionally. lol

Where Did I Go Wrong? (6/10/22 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/wWKvpCuCz2s


2/4/17

Paul Carrack

Harvest For The World (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/FLHq0BoEAO0


Another artist from the Ohne Filter series, vibist...

Roy Ayers

Sweet Tears (11/23/18 Original live version here deleted. It was flawless. This uptempo version is the best replacement I could find - for now)

https://youtu.be/z5uqCAFR9A0


2/3/17

Roy Ayers

Searching (great sax work)

https://youtu.be/Grkl_L2rkEw


And one for the music AND some fun. A 'competition' between Ayers and Dwight Gassoway, another musician in his band.

Battle Of The Vibes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oHQb...0CABF71D06C3E0

10/28/14

As the seasons change we might need a reminder of something that may be in short supply soon. Try this when that happens.

Everybody Loves The Sunshine (5/16/19 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/PJUHaZ69igA


12/7/13

Pssst!

Here's a secret. New music added frequently. Find them.

2/25/17

Dates for new posts will be in bold for a while after adding to serve as an alert. This started a few weeks ago.

A flash mob (or flashmob) is a group of people who assemble suddenly in a public place, perform an unusual and seemingly pointless act for a brief time, then quickly disperse, often for the purposes of entertainment, satire, and artistic expression. Flash mobs are organized via telecommunications, social media, or viral emails.

The term, coined in 2003, is generally not applied to events and performances organized for the purposes of politics (such as protests), commercial advertisement, publicity stunts that involve public relation firms, or paid professionals. In these cases of a planned purpose for the social activity in question, the term smart mobs is often applied instead. (Wikipedia)

What follows are events from all over the world where people have assembled in public places to surprise and entertain.

They're fun, worth watching, and should be viewed on full-screen which will enhance
your perspective of the venue.

Were the world a place where this activity was commonplace we might be the better for it.

One of my favorite places is the library. It is a great place to think amid the relaxing quiet.

https://youtu.be/YCm6Rxy1H78 (7/17/21 link repaired)


A beautiful, haunting piece that gradually changes as it is repeated.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=IsF53JpBMlk


From Germany...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=amLsXY4-zP0


From Hungary...a beautiful and difficult dance in a public square. As usual, the women's moves are the most complex...and lovely.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hltu...yer_detailpage


From New Zealand...look at this...hey, where'd they go?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=yLzPgBXHAJQ


From the U.K., a spectacular effort.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=1VDQDtVIir0


And, finally, one that provides a bit of uplift for those that surely need it.

https://youtu.be/vweFyvBx2W0 (7/17/21 link repaired)


8/26/14

While not a "flash mob" scene I found this impromptu street performance to be interesting and the music lovely.

Bryson Andres

Secrets

https://www.youtube.com/watch?featur...&v=YPYGeELPpno


12/31/16

This wedding had a surprise.

https://youtu.be/f_-7co3341w

These were fun to watch. Thanks for posting them Atyp. :)

I'm glad you enjoyed them.

They are fun - and very human in their own way.

Throughout this thread I have tried to provide examples of great music regardless of genre. Because jazz is a wonderful expression of human creativity, I have added many jazz artists that others may not know or know well. I hope that I am introducing some to music they may never have heard, from a musician they didn't know, and that they enjoy it.

Piano jazz is a personal favorite. Many superb pianists are showcased here but there is one that I have only touched on briefly; the remarkable Erroll Garner.

Many musicians who in their own right are renowned pick him as their favorite. His style, exuberance, and fantastic ability to imbue songs with his unique interpretation are legend. Some even call him the best jazz piano player of all time. Surprisingly, he couldn’t read music or explain well how he did what he did. On many recordings you could hear him humming the melody he followed, especially on “Teach Me Tonight”. He sat on phone books when he played. He was a prodigy in his youth and considered a genius as an adult.

His magnificent album from the sixties, Concert By The Sea, is still one of the best selling jazz albums of all time. He also recorded an album of beautiful, romantic music (Other Voices) that many purists criticized. Overall, he was a prodigious talent whose output of recorded and live performances was in the hundreds, if not more, and, he was probably the musician most interviewed on television during his time.

This is truly music to listen to in the foreground to really appreciate it and then background for doing anything. His sound is unique and immediately recognizable by those knowledgeable about jazz.

Casting around for other examples of his talent will not be wasted time.


He wrote the classic song, Misty. Here is a great rendition.

*Misty (1/15/20 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/P_tAU3GM9XI


Where Or When - and one more (2/11/16 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/zrMYEVnw6iA


*Long Ago And Far Away (2/11/16 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/5G0pvI1Pj4s


4/5/16

I try never to use words that are in excess of what is accurate. I can say with confidence that this is another example of his brilliance and will never be emulated at anywhere near his level.

Laura

https://youtu.be/sRA-WV01Ogk


1/24/17

This is just too pretty to ignore. So little time...

Fly Me To The Moon

https://youtu.be/KLjjQf-Kas0


Some gems from the iconic “Concert By The Sea” album.

I'll Remember April (6/5/16 like repaired)

https://youtu.be/I_aILGaLqyc


They Can't Take That Away From Me

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=GUVQaNTzNKU


Teach Me Tonight

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=6wtPHoibRBk


*Autumn Leaves - This is special (7/9/15 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/HY3bi64bJ9c


And, from the “Other Voices” album

*On The Street Where You Live (2/1/16 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/hqtOsj-zecY


*The Very Thought Of You (12/4/18 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/alB5O75gmDo

*Candles, wine and...would go nicely.


1/22/15

In post 225 (now located here), I introduced George Shearing, a jazz pianist popular around the time of Garner and beyond. His music deserves more exposure.

Shearing had a number of phases like most musicians; the one I like the most is his vibe player playing the same notes as he did on the piano. It is a great sound and was his “trademark” for years. Listen for it: September In The Rain and East Of The Sun are examples. There are others.

This is beautiful, elegant and exciting music.

Nothing But De Best

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=OUAT5rYh7Hk


Caravan

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=doNyj_iaNek


September In The Rain

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=9yjlILhTxXM


Now, some beautiful sounds for changing your mood.

Blue Malibu

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=WxbOkSNTTE0


East Of The Sun

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=zmm63Z_vUMM


The Folks Who Live On The Hill - especially beautiful (7/17/21 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/MDW6e_FHlOI


Early Autumn

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=v5_FQfdrStE


Roses Of Picardy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=LBCE42_OaYY


And, the lovely...

How Beautiful Is Night

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=JLkXyJbBB4A


Previously, in post 225.

Heard there’s a great singer at the club. Think I’ll call that doll I met last week, the one whose father is some kind of politician.

“Hey, baby, it’s me, Tony. Whaddya say, we go to the club tonight. Dress up nice. I’ll get us a good table. I’m tight with the captain. That’s great. I’ll pick you up at eight”.

“Hey, is Andre there”?

“No, he’s not here yet. Wait, he just walked in”.

“This is Andre”.

“Andre, this is Tony. I’m comin’ by tonight. I’d sure appreciate that table up front. The one by the stage; table 2, I think it is”.

“I don’t know, Mister Tony. We got a great singer and it’ll be real busy again tonight. I guess Eisenhower’s been good for business. I’m not sure I can”…

“Look, Andre, I’ll make it worth your while, if you know what I mean. I’m bringin’ a gorgeous babe and I want to impress her”.

“Okay, Mister Tony, on that basis I’ll see what I can do”.

“Thanks, Andre. You’re the best. Set us up with Champagne when we get there. The best you got”.

That night after a $50 dollar tip…

Ladies and gentlemen… please welcome The George Shearing Quintet with Miss Dakota Staton.


The Late Late Show (7/16/15 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/am2oKRJdGwU


In The Night

https://youtu.be/BpY_d7_mUaQ


The Thrill Is Gone

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=c5ArOZoBcZg

The show was great...and so was the Cordon Rouge.

Ten or so years ago I discovered the group 'Indigenous'. I liked their great bluesy-rock sound, and especially their lead singer, Matos', voice. I bought their then current CD.

Researching them, I learned they were a family band composed of members of the Nakota nation in South Dakota, hence their name.

Recently, I uncovered the CD, Circle, and was again impressed.

Here is some information from Wikipedia.

“Indigenous” is an American blues-rock group that came to prominence in the late 1990s. The band originally consisted of two brothers, Mato Nanji (Maiari) ('mah-TOE non-GEE' vocals and guitar, born 1974), Pte ('peh-TAY' bass guitar), along with their sister, Wanbdi ('wan-ba-DEE' drums, vocals), and their cousin, Horse (percussion).

Their music is heavily influenced by guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan, as well as Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana. Mato Nanji's style and skill has drawn comparisons to each of these guitarists. The band has also shared the stage with artists of varying musical genres such as B.B. King, Santana, Bonnie Raitt, Joan Baez, the Indigo Girls, Jackson Browne, Dave Matthews Band, and Los Lonely Boys. The band has headlined its own tours several times.

The Nakota Nation members grew up on South Dakota's Yankton Indian Reservation, where their father, Greg Zephier became a spokesperson for Native American rights. A musician in his own right during the 1960s and '70s, Zephier provided his children with records from blues musicians such as B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and Freddie King, and taught them to play their respective instruments. The family started touring together, and soon the children were performing on their own”.

Most of the tunes I am posting come from the CD mentioned above because they're great, but, there are others from different albums.

I have learned from comments on YouTube, (if accurate) that the family is no longer together, and that Mato has gone his own way without his former family band-mates; a chronic occurrence in the music biz.

Let's enjoy what we have here regardless of what the future holds. This band is ata cho.

Rest of My Days
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=LJSY4ey5I_0

Little Time
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=GXbeqZtvvQs

Remember
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=-K2d-A0yB60

Waiting For You
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=zlLsyLf_Vgs

Seven Steps Away
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=pd0tlATIhaM

Nothing I Can Do
https://youtu.be/v9WEpJuBbfw

Evolution Revolution
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=NXxNfh_3yOA

You Were The One
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=Oec7W8KJEi0

Runaway (9/2/15 link repaired)
https://youtu.be/5uX2zDTk7DE?list=PL...H1juczO831Tawc

Eagle Heart (7/17/21 link repaired)
https://youtu.be/ItHyD7Qi0do

And, live, Blues From The Sky
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=q2CPhYpqITk

Bring Back That Day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=nGAmQhpU1vM

The Moon Is Shining
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=lapQ_uwC_Bg

Things We Do (9/2/15 link repaired)
https://youtu.be/D3wE7tn2ClU

We have recently lost another great, Horace Silver. He was a sax player, later a pianist and a stellar composer. Two of his most famous elegant and swinging compositions follow.

Song For My Father

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=CWeXOm49kE0


Senor Blues (also by Taj Mahal in this thread) 11/23/18 link repaired

https://youtu.be/83cIgVfItAM


7/16/14

Song For My Father is a beautiful melody. Kind of infectious. There are many artists who have done this tune. Maybe it deserves some more attention, especially to honor Horace Silver... and for our Fathers.

Leon Thomas is a great talent with a somewhat unusual “signature”. His treatment here is smooth and elegant. Wonderful sound.

Leon Thomas

Song For My Father (8/29/14 link repaired)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=hSYwGEiowHg


*And then, there is Dee Dee Bridgewater's version. She mines it for every emotion possible – smooth, hard-driving and danceable. Backed by a tight band she pulls everything from it, interprets it her way and returns it to us.

Dee Dee Bridgewater

Song For My Father (6/2/19 orig vid deleted - replaced w/another)

https://youtu.be/AapII8zmsdc


12/1/19

*The original Dee Dee Bridgewater post is again available. I will leave the earlier replacement.

https://youtu.be/uERd3svo6Mg


After an extended intro during which he plays two instruments at once (and continues), Stanley Jordan launches into another wonderful version of this song that respects the original.

Stanley Jordan Trio

Song For My Father

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=p9Ae3R6QP6c


One more that's different.

There is a kind of jazz where the notes are flying, dissonance is common and you can't make out any melody. Not interesting.

At the beginning this started to sound like that. But I listened. Carefully. Many times. There is a melody that recurs throughout. The musicians all use the same theme and riff on it but remain true to that melody. Everything fits together. Then there are the solos. These guys are great especially Horace Silver. Billy Cobham demonstrates why he is one of the all-time great drummers (he's elsewhere on this thread with McCoy Tyner). If you really listen it makes sense and doesn't sound disconnected. Though, if you don't pay attention it may run you over.

Try it.

(The title may refer to frantic behavior. If that guess is correct the music's up-tempo beat is a bit funny. Listen and think about it.)

Horace Silver

Nutville (8/10/23 repaired link)

https://youtu.be/yzxgC5cwhjA

7/23/14

Heard this today for the first time. Not sure...researched and yep!

Another gem from...

Horace Silver

Bonita ('pretty' in Spanish; and it is.) (6/2/19 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/_nLdw5HlkPw


2/21/16

How bout' a catchy jazz tune whose title is the name of a snake? Interested? So, listen - it won't bite.

Lee Morgan (12/5/18 link repaired)

The Sidewinder

https://youtu.be/qJi03NqXfk8

This thread, Reminiscences, focuses on those tunes that made an impression on us; the ones we remember like it was yesterday.

Peter Frampton is not an unknown artist – except to those very young or the indifferent. “Frampton Comes Alive,” once the best selling rock album of all time, is now allegedly fourth, and, still a marvel of melody, lyrics and hard-driving musical emotion.

If you haven't heard these in a while, or are unfamiliar, (re) try them for a clean rockin' sound; one that isn’t artificial like much of what passes for music now, but, instead, relies on instruments that actually sound like themselves. The music is a glorious and enduring celebration of rock, and therefore, appropriate for inclusion here.

The great, Peter Frampton.


Do You Feel Like We Do

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=V9Yq5m9eLIQ


Lines On My Face (A lovely melody, lyrics and emotional for those who can relate)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=6MGXNb27QeA


While My Guitar Gently Weeps

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=KasR2lVvr2M


Show Me The Way

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=gIRqMTg1GVc


Baby, I Love Your Way

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=0gjWcnJLIZ0


I'm In You

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=qmniaq6P7Os

Music from all over the world – what could be better?

Jamaica and Mali.

Good stuff.


Gregory Isaacs

Loving Pauper

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM_m1EJRGjI

My Only Lover

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vs9wkNcdfoA

Number One

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQlfJXhDPNQ

Cool Down The Pace

https://youtu.be/M_7MCRrYwxw


1/22/17

I have musical preferences, but, unlike many, they don't restrict my curiosity about other music that I don't know well or have never heard. This thread is evidence of that.

Gregory Isaacs is one of many popular reggae artists. Monty Alexander is also Jamaican, born in Kingston, but known more as a jazz musician. Here he plays his versions of great tunes known to all who are familiar with reggae.

Monty Alexander

No Woman No Cry

https://youtu.be/FaFdK_hXBnU


Monty Alexander w/Delfeayo Marsalis

No More Trouble

https://youtu.be/M94OJSf5Io8


7/26/17

Monty Alexander

Could You Be Loved

https://youtu.be/4NY10mTDee4


1/27/17

Monty Alexander

Running Away

https://youtu.be/By4TfZlpny0


9/16/17

Another version of the song above. It has some different instruments, musicians and the arrangement is a bit different. It's great.

Monty Alexander

Running Away

https://youtu.be/3C8wDpD0alw


9/16/17

The musicians in this selection are the same as in the appearance above. This very talented ensemble is something to see and hear. The drummer/percussionist Karl Wright (w/o a suit) is in some MA concert videos and his skill is remarkable.

This is from a Montreux, 2016 gig.

Monty Alexander

https://youtu.be/JHrQrWTticM


3/3/17

Monty Alexander

The Heathen

https://youtu.be/pGLMInpWVmY


Vieux Farka Touré

Ai du

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqIP...230883D4644CC8

Slow Jam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTYdBgwlXTQ

Ay Bakoy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUUOaEfTGLo

Fafa

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgIZElJdNiI

This song appears a few times in this thread, because, well, the melody and lyrics are irresistible. Now, there is a melancholy reason for posting a different and unique version of it again.

None of the usual, trite platitudes now; just an expression of appreciation for a musician who provided, for a long time, some enjoyable sounds.

Thanks, Mr. King.

The Thrill Is (sadly) Gone (1/19/20 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/SgXSomPE_FY


Some information about his background.

http://www.msn.com/en-us/music/news/...-89/ar-BBjOalF


5/25/15

Seems like there should be additional homages to BB King here - and tributes to other passed blues performers, too. Try this.

Luther Allison (this version is GREAT)

The Thrill Is Gone

https://youtu.be/U5f5khSrefQ


3/28/15 (Moved from post 225).

This is a great song from a blues singer as good as the best of any of them, and appears in the concert below.

Luther Allison

She Was Born That Way (the concert version of this song appears at 37:46 below. The lyrics celebrate what an unselfish women can contribute to a man whether he appreciates it or not. The concert version is sung with the emotion the lyrics demand.)

https://youtu.be/WXof3HNVLLE

5/25/15

Allison did a concert some years ago in Europe (one of many because he lived there for a time) that is one of the best blues appearances I have ever heard (and seen.) Usually, there are songs you like and some you like less in any concert or CD. For me, this is one of the most perfect blues appearances ever and the first complete concert performance I have posted here. The drummer, Yvette Preyer, is fantastic.

Luther Allison - Festival de Jazz de San Sebastian July 1994

https://youtu.be/M3Qhg4PU8BQ


3/11/17

I once read a comment by a sound guy who Allison wanted to take with him to Europe for an extended gig. The guy didn't go but said Allison was his favorite of all the blues musicians he knew. Others who saw him live in the early years, frequently in front of small crowds, said he always played and sang full out. From all I've read he was not only one of the best but a gentleman, too.

I had chances to see Luther Allison live and never did. I didn't know enough about him then to know he was a GIANT in the blues world. I now consider him one of the top five male blues artists ever. I will always regret my mistake. These posts show what we've all lost.

Luther Allison (7/3/17 link repaired)

Living In The House Of The Blues

https://youtu.be/GjMQvQhmthY


3/11/17

If you are in the right mood and like the blues this will tear you up!

Luther Allison

Cherry Red Wine (7/3/17 corrected title)

https://youtu.be/2vFqHF8dAWE


3/11/17

Luther Allison

Let's Try Again (this is an incredible arrangement and performance by Allison)

https://youtu.be/UzbMeuHVN_w

For anything that benefits from beautiful sounds, here is the superb...

Patricia Barber

Winter

https://youtu.be/LRnNOKDnCH0


Easy To Love (8/10/23 link repaired)

https://youtu.be/-qMnN9oNbOE


Invitation

https://youtu.be/f1yabvbJaog


You Don't Know Me

https://youtu.be/95E3tKTnfQI


Nardis

https://youtu.be/Zi3i-HqDNFI


The Thrill Is Gone (also see a version of this song here by Dakota Staton)

https://youtu.be/018lzEWLSVU


The arrangement and the band's talent provide a unique sound.

Don't miss this.

Use Me

https://youtu.be/ci27xPmQ4-w


3/10/17

My endless search for great music of all kinds unearthed this...another great singer in the style of Ms. Barber. Nice... and so smooth.

Oh, and New York scenes, too...yeaah!

Rene Marie

Sound Of Red

https://youtu.be/oJ64fMe0Xh4


3/10/17

Lisa Ferraro with (the very great) Houston Person and echoes of Nancy Wilson.

Teach Me Tonight

https://youtu.be/A_TWKeMmApw


3/10/17

You don't have to understand Spanish to feel beautiful music.

Luz Casal and Concha Buika

Sombras (shades or shadow)

https://youtu.be/li7GSExto0A


7/30/17

Some of this singer's musical choices are beautiful, mostly Spanish songs: her voice has a timbre, style and power that can elicit deep emotions in those who listen attentively to her music as shown in the preceding post. This selection is a bit different from most others but has the same intensity she brings to everything she does. The arrangement is stunning. The title provides some background.

Concha Buika

Y Quien Soy Yo + Nostalgias (and who am I, + nostalgia)

https://youtu.be/ESiFCsBMoho


7/30/17

Here is a simple arrangement of a beautiful song, intense and moving. She is a treasure in any language.

Concha Buika Y Javier Limon

Oro Santo

https://youtu.be/icd1c3FpnC4

Incidentally, she also has a playful, funny, and non-serious side and performs at jazz festivals, too. If you're interested, she did a show in Denmark that displayed her loose, humorous side. It's on YT. She's special no matter the event.


3/23/17

The wonderful Luz Casal singing "A Love Story" with a love story running alongside.

Historia de un Amor

https://youtu.be/P6ZKW3xzK7I


3/23/17

This song is, once again, another example of beautiful, romantic latin music. It deserves more exposure, so here is an interesting group (for more than one reason) that, as their name implies, sings in French and Spanish - sometimes in the same song as here.

French Latino

Historia de un Amor

https://youtu.be/s9PcpkMqtp8

Josef Erich "Joe" Zawinul was an Austrian jazz keyboardist and composer. He played with the Cannonball Adderley Quintet and wrote Mercy, Mercy, Mercy, which appears in post 225.

A prominent musician he later co-founded “Weather Report” and the Zawinul Syndicate. Here are some examples of his unique, provocative and exciting music.

Joe Zawinul

Zansa

https://youtu.be/QKZcGAq5kKs


Erdapfee Blues (read the comments to learn the meaning of the lyrics)

https://youtu.be/W-C2KE03ksM


And, with John McLaughlin

In A Silent Way (an intriguing and lovely tune)

https://youtu.be/UhHhLCl2_mI


Indiscretions

https://youtu.be/OIkhJmsZZ68


1/25/17

I like watching Paco Sery and Manolo Badrena. This selection is essentially Zanza above but is different enough to enjoy on its own. It's great music and great fun.

Zawinul Syndicate

https://youtu.be/pfyZJ42Htv0


2/29/16

Paco Sery, the drummer for the Zawinul Syndicate, is a fantastic talent. His post-Syndicate work is interesting.

Paco Sery Group

I Say Monkey (dedicated to the moderator)

https://youtu.be/092ng6iR1RA


I Say Monkey (the live version is a bit different than the studio)

https://youtu.be/Kaycblv1xVw


Nasty Girl

https://youtu.be/Y7AZ_bMarIQ


Raga

https://youtu.be/PtNuD6oppAM

Many years ago there was a program on local television in a major market that focussed on many types of emerging musical performers. On one special night the host, Rudy Oricek, had a new performer of “soul/rhythm and blues music.”

Al Green was asked a few questions before performing. He happened to say he had a cold and was not feeling well.

When he started singing I paid close attention because it was clear he had developed a style that contained everything that made his music a deeply emotional experience. During his performance his shirt became drenched with perspiration, probably more so because he was ill. At one point he dropped to his knees and that image increased the power of his dramatic performance.

Green went on to use his instantly identifiable style successfully. It was copied by many others including some who also used his backup band; it became known as the Memphis Sound and is represented by a few others in this thread.

As an example of soft soul, with poignant melodies and arrangements, sensitive lyrics of love and love lost, driving rhythm and pleading emotion you can't get any better than...

The great...

Al Green

7/17/21

Al Green's Greatest Hits

https://youtu.be/csZV3w_nscg


For The Good Times

https://youtu.be/Y2IpoTKnDPw