Jazz is style of music that was developed in the early twentieth century by African American communities in the southern states. It began as a grassroots movement in New Orleans, where local musicians played in bars and brothels like Basin Street and Storyville. They introduced the core instruments associated with Jazz, namely the Saxophone and Trumpet. Through this humble journey, Jazz has evolved into a multitude of fusion genres such as Acid Jazz, Free Jazz and Jazz Funk. Its distinctive syncopation, swing, improvisation and 2-5-1 progression (which is common Jazz progression, 2 minor 5 dominant 1 major) has captivated audiences up to today.
The 40s ushered in a new form of Jazz called Bebop. The fast paced tempos shifted the dancing tunes into a jazz genre more suitable for listening. It challenged musicians to construct enhanced abstract forms of chord improvisation and explosive drum beats. The 1950’s introduced Modal jazz with a simpler chord progression highlighting the melodic solos. The pioneers for this shift include legends such as Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock.
Jazz is a progressive style that has truly transcended eras and continues to develop by blending with Rock, Funk and Latin music by combining improvisations with rhythm and instruments.
Check out a few of MusicTaste’s Jazz artists you might like:
Click below to check out other MusicTaste’s current and latest releases:
