What’s The Most Popular Instrument In Jazz?

Photo by Gabriel Barletta on Unsplash

Jazz music is a genre that has been around for over a century and has produced some of the most iconic musicians of all time. At the core of jazz music are the instruments that create the distinctive sound that we all know and love. From the trumpet to the saxophone, each instrument plays a crucial role in the jazz ensemble. In this article, we will be exploring the top 5 most popular instruments in jazz. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this list is sure to give you some insight into the instruments that have shaped the sound of jazz music over the years. So sit back, relax, and get ready to immerse yourself in the magical world of jazz music!

Importance of Instruments in Jazz

Instruments are the backbone of jazz music. They are what give the genre its unique sound and make it stand out from other forms of music. Jazz is a highly improvisational style of music, and the instruments used allow for the musicians to express themselves in a way that is not possible in other genres. The instruments used in jazz are chosen for their ability to create a wide range of sounds and emotions, and for their ability to interact with each other in a cohesive way.

The popularity of an instrument in jazz is determined by a number of factors. Firstly, the sound of the instrument must be unique and distinctive. It must be able to stand out in the midst of other instruments and be able to hold its own in a solo performance. Secondly, the instrument must be versatile and be able to create a wide range of sounds and emotions. Lastly, the instrument must be able to interact well with other instruments in the jazz ensemble. It must be able to complement and enhance the sounds of the other instruments.

The Most Played Instruments in Jazz – Saxophone, Piano, and Trumpet

The saxophone, piano, and trumpet are three of the most popular instruments in jazz. They are each unique in their sound and have played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of jazz music.

Third Place: Piano – History and Famous Pianists

The piano is a versatile instrument that has been an integral part of jazz music since its inception. It is used to create a wide range of sounds and emotions, from melancholy ballads to upbeat swing tunes. The piano was invented in the early 18th century and has since become one of the most popular instruments in the world.

Some of the most famous pianists in jazz history include Duke Ellington, Thelonious Monk, and Bill Evans. Duke Ellington was a composer, bandleader, and pianist who is considered one of the greatest musicians of all time. Thelonious Monk was known for his unique style and his ability to create complex melodies on the piano. Bill Evans was known for his sensitive and introspective playing style, and his ability to create beautiful harmonies on the piano.

Second Place: Trumpet – History and Famous Trumpet Players

The trumpet is a brass instrument that has been a staple in jazz music since the early 20th century. It is known for its bright and powerful sound, and its ability to create a wide range of emotions. The trumpet was originally used in military bands, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became a popular instrument in jazz music.

Some of the most famous trumpet players in jazz history include Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, and Miles Davis. Louis Armstrong was a pioneer of jazz music and is considered one of the greatest musicians of all time. Dizzy Gillespie was known for his virtuosic playing style and his ability to create complex melodies on the trumpet. Miles Davis was known for his innovative style and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz music.

First Place: Saxophone – History and Famous Saxophonists

Our number one most popular instrument in Jazz today, the saxophone, was invented in 1846 by Adolphe Sax, a Belgian instrument maker. It was initially used in military bands, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that it became a staple instrument in jazz music. The saxophone is known for its smooth and sultry sound, and its ability to create a wide range of emotions.

Some of the most famous saxophonists in jazz history include Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, and Sonny Rollins. Charlie Parker, also known as “Bird,” was a pioneer of bebop and is considered one of the greatest saxophonists of all time. John Coltrane was known for his avant-garde style and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz music. Sonny Rollins is known for his improvisational skills and his ability to create complex melodies on the saxophone.

Other Popular Instruments in Jazz – Bass, Drums, and Guitar

While the saxophone, piano, and trumpet are the most popular instruments in jazz, there are several other instruments that are commonly used in jazz ensembles. The bass, drums, and guitar are three of the most popular instruments in jazz after the saxophone, piano, and trumpet.

The bass is a stringed instrument that is used to provide the foundation for the music. It is often used to create a walking bassline, which is a staple of jazz music. The drums are used to provide rhythm and to create a sense of forward momentum in the music. The guitar is used to create a wide range of sounds and emotions, from gentle chords to scorching solos.

Drum Roll – Why These Instruments are Important in Jazz Music

The instruments used in jazz music are crucial to the genre’s unique sound and feel. The saxophone, piano, and trumpet are three of the most popular instruments in jazz, and each has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of jazz music over the years. Other popular instruments in jazz include the bass, drums, and guitar, each of which brings its own unique flavor to the music. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, these instruments are sure to capture your heart and transport you to the magical world of jazz music.

We are here to tell you to do something irresponsible. 

Get rebellious with our new release of “Call Me Irresponsible”, music by Jimmy Van Heusen and John Di Martino as our music director. Live a little, do something daring, exciting, something new. Because that is how this song makes you feel “irresponsible, irresistible and undeniably true that it is bad for you”.

Jimmy van Heusen is claimed as one of the best songwriters in American history. Claiming a total of 4 Oscars and 1 Emmy for “best song”Best Song”, he is truly one of the most decorated musicians in American history. Being that he wrote these absolutely classic songs that should show that You should give this album another listen for the sake of hearing the classics and remembering the old greats.

Our new version featuring John Di Martino, it brings these classic hits into a new era. A full list of musicians is available on our website, nightisalive.com and remember to return weekly for a new blog post.

But that is enough of that why don’t you go back to one of our past releases? Specifically, the Colors of Jazz by the Lorca Hart trio featuring Ralph Moore. This new edition of the classic hit “Here’s That Rainy Day” another Jimmy Van Heusen tune, is much more pleasing to the ear with the soft jazz tunes and is a great choice for when relaxing. Click here: https://nightisalive.com/albums/ for your listening pleasure.

Why Jazz Musicians Should Choose a Professional Studio for Recording

Image Source: Unsplash‍

As a jazz musician, you know that the quality of your recordings can make or break your career. Whether you’re looking to create a demo to send to record labels or release an album independently, you need a recording that captures the essence of your sound and connects with listeners. That’s why it’s essential to choose a professional studio for your jazz music recording. In this article, I’ll explain why recording quality matters for jazz music, the advantages of using a professional studio, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Recording Quality Matters for Jazz Music

Jazz music is all about improvisation, spontaneity, and creativity. It’s a genre that requires technical skill, emotional depth, and musical intuition. As a jazz musician, you want your recordings to capture the energy and emotion of your live performances. That’s why recording quality matters for jazz music.

A high-quality recording can bring out the nuances of your performance, highlight the interplay between band members, and showcase the subtleties of your sound. It can transport listeners to the club or concert hall and make them feel like they’re experiencing your music in real-time. A low-quality recording, on the other hand, can make your music sound flat, lifeless, and uninteresting. It can also turn off potential fans and industry professionals who are looking for quality recordings to invest in.

Advantages of Using a Professional Studio for Jazz Music Recording

Recording in a professional studio has several advantages over recording at home or in a cheap studio. First, a professional studio has the equipment, acoustics, and expertise to capture your sound accurately. Professional studios have high-quality microphones, preamps, mixers, and monitors that can bring out the best in your instrument and voice. They also have well-designed rooms and acoustic treatments that can minimize unwanted noise, reverb, and distortion.

Second, a professional studio has experienced sound engineers who can help you achieve the sound you’re looking for. Sound engineers are trained to balance the levels, EQ, and dynamics of your tracks, and they can offer creative suggestions for enhancing your sound. They can also troubleshoot technical issues, such as clicks, pops, and hums, that can ruin a recording.

Third, a professional studio can save you time and money in the long run. While it may seem cheaper to record at home or in a cheap studio, the cost of fixing mistakes, re-recording tracks, and mastering your recording can add up quickly. A professional studio can help you get your recording right the first time, which can save you money on future edits and remixes.

How a Professional Studio Can Enhance the Sound of Your Jazz Music

A professional studio can enhance the sound of your jazz music in several ways. First, a professional studio can offer a controlled environment that allows you to focus on your performance without distractions. Unlike home or cheap studios, professional studios are designed to minimize outside noise and interruptions, which can help you achieve a better performance.

Second, a professional studio can offer a range of equipment and instruments that you may not have access to at home or in a cheap studio. For example, a professional studio may have a grand piano, a vintage guitar amp, or a rare drum set that can add a unique flavor to your recording. They may also have high-quality effects processors, such as reverbs, delays, and compressors, that can add depth and dimension to your sound.

Third, a professional studio can offer a range of services that can help you polish your recording to perfection. For example, they may offer editing, mixing, and mastering services that can help you fine-tune your tracks, adjust levels, and add effects. They may also offer session musicians, backup singers, and other professionals who can add their talents to your recording.

The Role of Equipment in Jazz Music Recording

Equipment plays a crucial role in jazz music recording. The right equipment can capture the nuances of your performance and enhance the sound of your instrument and voice. The wrong equipment can make your recording sound dull, flat, or distorted.

Microphones are one of the most critical pieces of equipment in jazz music recording. Different microphones have different characteristics that can affect the way your instrument or voice sounds. For example, a condenser microphone can capture the warmth and richness of a grand piano, while a dynamic microphone can handle the high sound pressure levels of a drum set.

Preamps are another critical piece of equipment in jazz music recording. Preamps amplify the signal from your microphone or instrument and add color and character to your sound. A high-quality preamp can add warmth, depth, and clarity to your recording, while a low-quality preamp can add noise, distortion, and coloration.

Mixers are also essential in jazz music recording. Mixers allow you to balance the levels of your tracks, add effects, and create a stereo image. A high-quality mixer can offer precision and flexibility in your mixing process, while a low-quality mixer can limit your options and compromise your sound.

The Importance of Sound Engineering for Jazz Music Recording

Sound engineering is a critical aspect of jazz music recording. Sound engineers are trained to capture, shape, and enhance the sound of your recording. They can offer technical expertise, creative suggestions, and troubleshooting skills that can make your recording sound its best.

Sound engineers can help you achieve the right balance between instruments and voice, adjust levels, EQ, and dynamics, and add effects and automation. They can also offer suggestions for improving your performance, such as adjusting your mic placement or changing your instrument.

The best sound engineers are also excellent communicators. They can listen to your ideas and feedback and translate them into technical adjustments that can enhance your sound. They can also offer their own creative ideas and suggestions that can take your recording to the next level.

How a Professional Studio Can Save Time and Money for Jazz Musicians

Recording in a professional studio can save time and money for jazz musicians in several ways. First, a professional studio can help you get your recording right the first time, which can save you time on future edits and remixes. A professional studio can also help you avoid technical issues, such as clicks, pops, and hums, that can cost you time and money to fix.

Second, a professional studio can offer a range of services that can save you time and money in the long run. For example, they may offer editing, mixing, and mastering services that can help you polish your recording to perfection. They may also offer session musicians, backup singers, and other professionals who can add their talents to your recording, which can save you time on arranging and rehearsing.

Third, a professional studio can help you avoid costly mistakes that can ruin your recording. For example, they can help you choose the right equipment and settings for your instrument and voice, which can prevent distortion, noise, or coloration. They can also help you avoid common mistakes, such as playing too loudly or too softly, that can compromise your sound.

Choosing the Right Professional Studio for Your Jazz Music Recording

Choosing the right professional studio for your jazz music recording requires some research and planning. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Location: Choose a professional studio that is convenient for you to travel to and from. Consider the transportation options, parking, and accessibility.
  • Reputation: Choose a professional studio with a good reputation for quality recordings, professional staff, and fair prices. Look for reviews, testimonials, and referrals from other jazz musicians.
  • Equipment: Choose a professional studio with high-quality equipment that can capture your sound accurately and enhance it creatively. Look for microphones, preamps, mixers, and monitors that are well-maintained and up-to-date.
  • Acoustics: Choose a professional studio with well-designed rooms and acoustic treatments that can minimize unwanted noise, reverb, and distortion. Look for studios that offer different room sizes and configurations to suit your needs.
  • Staff: Choose a professional studio with experienced and courteous staff who can help you achieve the sound you’re looking for. Look for sound engineers, producers, and other professionals who are knowledgeable, patient, and communicative.
  • Cost: Choose a professional studio that offers fair and transparent pricing for their services. Look for studios that offer packages, discounts, and flexible payment options that fit your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jazz Music Recording in a Professional Studio

Here are some frequently asked questions about jazz music recording in a professional studio:

What is the difference between a cheap studio and a professional studio?

A cheap studio may offer lower prices but may compromise on equipment, acoustics, and expertise. A professional studio, on the other hand, may offer higher prices but can provide high-quality equipment, well-designed rooms, and experienced sound engineers.

How long does jazz music recording take in a professional studio?

The length of jazz music recording in a professional studio depends on several factors, such as the number of tracks, the complexity of the arrangements, and the skill of the musicians. On average, it can take several hours to several days to record a jazz album in a professional studio.

Can I bring my own instruments and equipment to a professional studio?

Yes, you can bring your own instruments and equipment to a professional studio. However, it’s important to check with the studio beforehand to ensure that your equipment is compatible with their setup and to avoid any technical issues.

Can I hire session musicians or backup singers from a professional studio?

Yes, many professional studios offer session musicians, backup singers, and other professionals who can add their talents to your recording. However, it’s important to discuss your needs and budget with the studio beforehand to ensure that you get the best value for your money.

Let’s Make Beautiful Music Together

Jazz music recording requires technical skill, emotional depth, and musical intuition. To capture the essence of your sound and connect with listeners, it’s essential to choose a professional studio for your recording. A professional studio can offer high-quality equipment, well-designed rooms, experienced sound engineers, and a range of services that can enhance your sound and save you time and money. By considering the factors mentioned above and doing your research, you can choose the right professional studio for your jazz music recording and take your career to the next level.

Dave Brubeck: A Legendary Jazz Pianist and Composer

Dave Brubeck was a legendary jazz pianist and composer who helped to shape the course of jazz music in the 20th century. Born in Concord, California in 1920, Brubeck began playing piano at an early age and went on to study music at the College of the Pacific in Stockton, California.

Brubeck formed his first jazz ensemble, the Dave Brubeck Quartet, in 1951, and the group quickly gained popularity with their innovative approach to time signatures and their use of odd meters. They released their first album, “Jazz at College of the Pacific,” in 1952, and their follow-up album, “Jazz Goes to College,” became a hit in 1954.

In 1959, the Dave Brubeck Quartet released the album “Time Out,” which featured the hit single “Take Five.” The song, which was written by saxophonist Paul Desmond and featured a 5/4 time signature, became one of the best-selling jazz singles of all time and helped to make Brubeck a household name.

Brubeck continued to perform and record music throughout his career, releasing more than 50 albums as a leader and collaborating with a wide range of artists, including jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. He was a prolific composer, writing music for film, television, and stage, and he was also a dedicated educator, teaching at institutions such as the Juilliard School and the College of the Pacific.

In addition to his work as a musician, Brubeck was also a social activist and humanitarian. He used his music as a platform to address issues of social justice, and he worked with organizations such as the United Nations and Amnesty International to promote peace and human rights.

Dave Brubeck passed away in 2012 at the age of 91, but his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence jazz musicians and fans around the world. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz pianists and composers of all time, and his contributions to the genre will be remembered for generations to come.

Ringing in a Jazzy New Years

Jazz music has a long and storied history, with its roots tracing back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States. It has evolved over time, incorporating a wide range of influences and styles, and has had a profound impact on popular culture around the world.

One of the key events in the history of jazz is the emergence of “jazz age” in the 1920s, which saw the rise of popular jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. These musicians helped to popularize jazz and bring it to mainstream audiences, and their influence can still be felt today.

Jazz has also played an important role on New Year’s Eve, with many people turning to jazz music to help ring in the new year. From jazz clubs and dance halls to television and radio broadcasts, jazz has been a staple of New Year’s Eve celebrations for decades.

One of the reasons that jazz has remained so popular on New Year’s Eve is its ability to evoke a sense of excitement and celebration. The fast tempo and improvisational nature of jazz music make it the perfect accompaniment to the festive atmosphere of the holiday.

In addition to its role in New Year’s Eve celebrations, jazz has also had a lasting influence on other genres of music. Many modern artists, from pop and rock to hip hop and electronic, have incorporated elements of jazz into their music, helping to keep the genre alive and relevant for new generations of listeners.

Overall, jazz has a rich and varied history, and its influence can still be felt today, particularly on New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re dancing the night away in a jazz club or enjoying the sounds of a jazz band on the radio, there’s no denying that jazz is an integral part of the celebration of the start of a new year.

You can ring in the new year by listening to Night is Alive’s new album, Call Me Irresponsible, celebrating the Jazz of Jimmy Van Heusen.

Listen to the entire album on YouTube or on any of the major Streaming Services. 

Songs to Listen to While Baking Cookies

Songs to Listen to While Baking Cookies

It’s that time of the year again. Whether snow is gently falling on your windowpanes or sunlight is streaming through, the holidays are fast approaching.

If you’re living in the southern hemisphere, it can sometimes be difficult to get yourself into the Christmas spirit. Most of the popular holiday songs and movies out there take place in colder climates—small towns nestled in snow-covered mountaintops, people dressed in hats and mittens, chestnuts roasting on an open fire. So, if your holidays usually consist of beachside barbeques, swimsuits, and sunglasses, you might be feeling a tad left out.

But don’t worry. We know just what’ll do the trick to get you in the spirit . . . baking Christmas cookies! There’s nothing else that can make you feel more like one of Santa’s elves. And some lively holiday tunes will also be sure to get you in the mood for some holiday cheer!

George Strait – Christmas Cookies

I don’t know about you, but country music usually makes me think of summertime. So, if you’re living in a tropical climate during the holidays, nothing can really beat Christmas country music!

This 2021 song is literally perfect for baking cookies because the cute and descriptive lyrics will get you excited and make your tummy rumble! The ones that look like Santa Claus, Christmas trees and bells and stars . . . sometimes I can’t get myself to stop . . .

John Di Martino, Wayne Escoffery & Lonnie Plaxico – Blue Christmas

Did you know that singing, even if it’s off-key, can greatly improve your happiness levels? Yes, it’s true! That’s why this December, you should make sure to belt out the lyrics to your favorite Christmas songs.

I’m sure that this new, jazzy instrumental rendition of Elvis’s hit “Blue Christmas” will prove to be a fan favorite since you and your family can all easily sing along while you bake cookies. Don’t worry, I’m sure no one will notice if you’re not all harmonized . . .

Nat King Cole – Deck the Halls

Even if you’re not much of a singer, chances are that you know the lyrics to this Christmas classic. And the range in tone is pretty limited, so it doesn’t matter whether your voice is an alto or bass! No matter who you are, you can handle this song, so there’s no excuse not to “fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la” along with everyone while you mix up batter, knead dough or cut out cookies.

Bill Cunliffe Trio – It’s The Most Wonderful Time of The Year

This slow and whimsical rendition from Grammy-Award-Winner Bill Cunliffe really lingers in the beautiful details, just like the intricate icing and sprinkles on the sugar cookies you’ll be making. Sing along or even hum softly as you wrap up a lovely afternoon or evening full of Yuletide cheer.

John Di Martino, Wayne Escoffery & Andromeda Turre – Happy Hanukkah

Unfortunately, amid all the images of Santa Claus and baby Jesus in the manger, Hanukkah tends to get overlooked sometimes. But not anymore! This new song, featuring the stunning vocals of Andromeda Turre, shines light on the Jewish holiday.  

If you’re looking for more holiday songs to listen to while you bake cookies, we recommend checking out our holiday album collection, which features stars like Andromeda Turre, Bill Cunliffe & John Di Martino. 

Songs for a Sagittarius’s Birthday Party! 

Songs for a Sagittarius’s Birthday Party!

Whether you’re a big fan of zodiac signs or not, chances are that you have a friend or loved one who was born sometime between November 22 and December 21, which makes them a Sagittarius!

Known for their optimism, honesty, spontaneity, and fun-loving outlooks on life, it comes as no surprise that many pop stars are Sagittarius—just to name a few, Britney Spears, Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish and Nicki Minaj.

But what about jazz? Well, the same applies! As we explored in our most recent Q&A series, with jazz journalist Joe Lang, Hoagy Carmichael is a Sagittarius. And so are Billy Strayhorn, Louis Prima, Frank Sinatra and many more.

In honor of the upcoming Sagittarius season, we put together a list of songs to play at the birthday party of your favorite Sagittarius!

Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn – Take the ‘A’ Train

Born on November 29, 1915, in Dayton, Ohio, Billy Strayhorn grew up to become one of the most famous jazz composers in American history. After moving to Pittsburgh as a child and studying classical music, Strayhorn met Duke Ellington at one of the band leader’s performances.

Strayhorn had the courage to show Ellington how he would have arranged one of his pieces differently! Luckily, the bold move paid off and Ellington was impressed enough to invite Strayhorn to play with his band, which led to many collaborations, such as this 1939 standard about the then-new A subway service running through New York City.

Louis Prima – Buona Sera

Known as “The King of Swing,” this American singer, songwriter, bandleader, and trumpeter is one powerhouse of a Sagittarius.

Born on December 7, 1910, to an Italian American family in New Orleans, Louis Prima not only helped to popularize jump blues in the late 1940s, but he also embraced his Italian heritage by blending elements of his Sicilian identity, such as the tarantella, with his jazz. This helped pave the way for other ethnic musicians, who, unfortunately, at that time, were discouraged from expressing their roots.

And did you know that Prima was also the voice actor for the orangutan King Louie in the 1967 Disney movie The Jungle Book? Talk about a fun-loving Sagittarius!

Frank Sinatra – Let’s Fall in Love

Even if you don’t know anything about jazz, you’ve definitely heard of Frank Sinatra, who is one of the world’s best-selling music artists of all time.

Also nicknamed “Chairman of the Board” and “Ole ‘Blue Eyes,” this singer and actor was born on December 12, 1915, in Hoboken, New Jersey to Italian immigrants. As a child, he became interested in big band jazz, and was deeply inspired by the easy-listening vocal style of Bing Crosby.

He got his first break in 1935 when he joined a local singing group and eventually rose to stardom, with an estimated 150 million record sales!

The WJ3 All-Stars – Broadway

This new tune—featuring many of the hottest contemporary jazz stars, like Willie Jones III, Wayne Escoffery and Steve Davis—really captures the spunky and spontaneous spirit of a Sagittarius! Just like the stars of Broadway, a Sagittarius is meant to shine bright.

For more spunky jazz tunes to play at a Sagittarius’s birthday party, check out our newest album, My Ship, which is available in our store and on all major music platforms.

This post was written by Night is Alive Blog Editor and Digital Marketing Manager Jacqueline Knirnschild.

Special Hoagy Carmichael Q&A with Joe Lang (Part III)

Special Hoagy Carmichael Q&A with Joe Lang (Part III)

Happy belated birthday to the legendary composer Hoagy Carmichael, who if still alive, would’ve turned 123 this year on November 22nd!

In honor of the multitalented songwriter, we are wrapping up our chat with Joe Lang, who writes for the New Jersey Jazz Association.

JK: Tell us more about your interest in Hoagy Carmichael.

JL: He was my favorite songwriter. I became aware of him as a little kid because my dad used to sing around the house, and one of the songs he sang was “Stardust.” I was maybe four years old when I learned the words to “Stardust” and I used to go around and sing it to everyone and people thought what is this, a little kid singing about reverie?

Hoagy was the first person in the entertainment world I was aware of and over time he became a hero of mine. You know there’s an awful lot of great songwriters in American song—Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Ira Gershwin, Harlen Howard, and I love them all, but I love Hoagy more than anybody.

Somebody once asked me who my three favorite songwriters were and my answer kind of flustered a lot of people because I said Hoagy, Stephen Sondheim, and Thelonious Monk and they didn’t see the connection. But you know I’m not a musician I’m a fan, so I’m not technically able to talk about music but I’ve listened to enough that you pick a lot up. For me, though, music is a very emotional experience rather than a technical experience, so a lot of songs strike me a certain way. I always tell people my favorite female singer was June Christie, not because I think she was the best female singer but there was just something about her singing that struck me emotionally—the sound of her voice, the phrasing, the fact that she kind of sang flat some of the time, it was kind of intentional and just was the thing that I react to.

And of course, I love a lot of Hoagy’s songs and lyrics, and I sat next to Hoagy Carmichael at his 80th birthday tribute and that had to be one of the greatest thrills of my life—to meet Hoagy, well not only meet him, but there were several performers on the show that he was not familiar with that he was asking me about, so I was educating him in a way. And early in the show, I think it was the second song they played, Bob Crosby introduced one of the earliest songs that Hoagy wrote and recorded, and it was called “March of the Hoodlums,” and I knew Hoagy’s music well, but I just didn’t remember having heard that song. Then about halfway through the sang, Hoagy jabbed me in the ribs with his elbow and said, “You know I don’t remember a damn note of that thing—I’m not even sure I wrote it! And so, I go home, and I had an album with early Hoagy Carmichael material on it and sure enough that song was on it, and there was also a recoding of that same song by Duke Ellington, so it was not an unknown song in its day, although it’s not one of Hoagy’s songs that has continued on.

It was funny that one of the guys who was on the program at the birthday tribute was Dave Frishberg. Now I thought that Frishberg was a latter-day Carmichael but when Frishberg came out, Hoagy had no idea who he was. Now Frishberg is a wonderful songwriter—he has a lot of songs that are a little bit different; that don’t follow a formula, and Hoagy was the same way—I think that’s one of the things that appealed to me about him. It wasn’t like you’d hear a song by him, and you’d think oh that’s a Hoagy song. He wrote so many different styles of songs and all so well. And he continued writing into the fifties. He probably kept writing after.

JK: I’d like to switch gears a bit here to talk about your short review of Night Is Alive’s album My Ship.

You wrote that Willie Jones II is “among the premier drummers on the scene today and demonstrates on this album that he also shines as a leader who knows how to put together a superior band. You will dig sailing on My Ship.”

Now I am wondering—what is your favorite son on the album?

JL: You know I’d have to look at the album again because I review 10-12 albums a month and I listen to many more that I get in the mail all the time.

JK: There was “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “God Bless the Child,” “My Ship,” “Broadway,” “Taking a Chance on Love,” “Star Eyes,” “Wave,” “I Should Care” and “Christmas Time Is Here.”

JL: Hmmm but I would say the song “My Ship” was probably the one I liked best if I had to pick one.

Hoagy Carmichael Q&A with Joe Lang

Special Hoagy Carmichael Q&A with Joe Lang (Part II)

We’re back this week to continue the conversation with jazz journalist and Hoagy Carmichael aficionado Joe Lang.

JK: So, for those of us who are unfamiliar with Hoagy Carmichael—would you mind giving us a brief rundown of his career? How and when did he begin composing?

JL: Well, he did so many things. I mean he’s primarily known as s songwriter, but he also did a lot of recordings, mostly of his own songs, but sometimes of other people’s songs. He did a dozen or so movies; he always seemed to play the same character—himself, but yeah, he had charm.

When he was a kid, he played piano and he was from Bloomington, Indiana and his mother played piano, and I guess when he was in college, he just started writing songs and playing music. He was basically a jazz musician, and he was just absolutely blown away by Bix Beiderbecke. He became good friends with Bix, and Bix died when he was 29 years old from drinking himself to death, but yeah, he hung around with Bix a lot when he could.

He was very special. He went to school at the University of Indiana. He got a law degree, and then he moved down to Florida, where he was working in a law office when he walked by this open window and heard this song “Washboard Blues” being played, which was one of his songs. He didn’t even know that recording had been made, so when he heard it, he said, “Gee! I think I’m going to concentrate more on songwriting.” So, he moved from Florida up to New York and became a songwriter and, you know, went on from there.

When he recorded “Washboard Blues,” it was for the Paul Whiteman Orchestra and the interesting thing about that was that when they were going to record it, Hoagy was going to sing it, but Paul Whiteman had Bing Crosby standing by in case they felt that Hoagy couldn’t do it, because it’s a very sophisticated song the way it’s written—it’s just not a normal song, it’s a wonderful song. But Hoagy nailed it, and they put the record out with Hoagy singing it. That was the record that really got him to realize that he had real potential as a professional songwriter. Interestingly enough the lyrics to that song were written by a guy who was a stonecutter somewhere in Indiana—I don’t know whether he sent the lyrics to Hoagy, if he was aa friend or if he ever wrote another lyric—but it’s a very fun lyric, it’s very kind of deep in its way.

Hoagy didn’t write many lyrics. He wrote a few lyrics but mostly he worked with other lyricists, most notably, Johnny Mercer. His most famous song is “Stardust,” which is one of the most recorded songs ever and when he wrote that, he actually wrote it as a midtempo instrumental, a bouncy little instrumental, but when Mitchell Parish added the lyrics, they made it a ballad. Most people think of “Stardust” as a romantic song but if you listen to the lyrics, it’s a very sad song. It’s about a love affair that went bad, as are many love songs.

Special Hoagy Carmichael Q&A with Joe Lang (Part I)

Special Hoagy Carmichael Q&A with Joe Lang (Part I)

Did you know that Hoagy Carmichael’s birthday is on November 22nd? That’s right, the famous Tin Pan Alley songwriter is a Sagittarius!

In honor of the multitalented entertainer, we sat down to chat with jazz journalist Joe Lang, who reviews CDs, books, and live performances for the New Jersey Jazz Society’s magazine “Jersey Jazz.”

Lang, who has been listening to jazz since his early teens, is a huge Hoagy Carmichael fan. He remembers becoming attached to “Stardust” when he was only four years old. Over the years, Lang has watched many of Carmichael’s movies, read his biographies, listened to his songs, and even gave a presentation at his local library about the accomplished composer.  

So, you can imagine that Lang was overjoyed when, at Carmichael’s 80th birthday celebration concert during the 1979 New York Jazz Festival, Lang discovered he was seated directly next to the guest of honor! How serendipitous, right?

JK: What is it about Hoagy Carmichael that you love so much?JL: I just like his songs—I never get sick of listening to them. I listened to that [1979 birthday] concert before we had the interview, and I’ve probably listened to that concert dozens of times and I never get sick of it. Of course, there’s a lot of nostalgia involved because I was there and sitting next to him. That was kind of special.

JK: What was Hoagy Carmichael like in person? Was he everything you had imagined?  

Well, yeah. He was a character. His wife had passed away and he had remarried and this lady who he was married to was sitting next to him and she kept getting so embarrassed because he kept shouting things out. I remember they were playing a lot of relatively obscure songs and at one point he yelled out, when are you going to start playing my hits? He was just a character.

if you saw his movies, that pretty much captured what he was like. He had a TV show in the fifties—I wish I could find it—for a short time he was the host of a variety show, but I don’t remember watching it when it was on, and I’ve never been able to find it, but it would’ve been interesting to see that because I bet with that little bit of that recording, you’d really get a flavor of what his personality was like.  

JK: Is Stardust still your favorite Hoagy song?

You know, it’s hard to pick out one song. I like a quirky little song that he wrote that’s not that well known now—it had its popularity in its time—it’s a song called “Little Old Lady.” I just always found it charming. And he wrote a musical with Johnny Mercer called Walk with Music that didn’t get to Broadway as far as I know and the rest of the score most people haven’t heard, but the title song “Walk with Music” is one that got picked up by a lot of singers and I like that song a lot.  

Well, we hope you enjoyed this Feature Friday!

And in honor of Veteran’s Day, we have a special treat for you—a 20% off promo code! Enter VETERANS20 at checkout to receive this exclusive discount.