1. Solar (Dedications 2)
This song is from miles davis. When she was in Boston in 1956, Miles’ group came to Storyville, where she was playing there for 4 days a week. Miles let her play in his band but when push came to shove, she was too nervous to play well. Miles consoled her and told her to not be scared and related to her by telling her he felt that way when he played with Charlie Parker. Solar has one of the greatest melody, which Toshiko enhances with her skills.
2. Django (Dedications 1)
Django was one of John Lewis famous songs as well as the Modern Jazz Quartet’s favorite tune. Toshiko was impressed by John’s continued support for his band members when she played with him in 1972. Diango was her first song from John Lewis repertoire – a sensitive, melodic and passionate tribute to her good friend.
3. Israel (Dedications 2)
In 1951 right after Toshiko quit Six Lemons she formed her own quartet, with whom she played this song. This song has many great versions like Miles Davis’ version with 9 players or Bill Evans’ trio version.
4. Don’t Be Afraid, the Clown’s Afraid Too (Dedications 1)
Before Toshiko sang this song, it belonged to renowned bass player, composer and band leader, Charles Mingus, whose band she was a part of. Mingus influenced Toshiko
throughout her career whether it was word of wisdom during first jazz concert in New York or advice to help her when she was feeling down.
5. In Your own Sweet Way (Dedications 2)
Dave Brubeck’s traditional version of In Your Own Sweet Way didn’t appeal to Toshiko in Japan. It wasn’t until she attended one of his concerts did she change her mind. She was impressed when he began play the catchy and beautiful melody so much so she decided to rerecord it and make it her own.
What is your favorite five in Dedications?
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