Dec 25 2023
As the holiday season unfolds, there’s no better way to indulge in its merriment than by immersing oneself in the melodic charm of jazz, particularly the timeless tunes of Oscar Peterson. His soulful renditions of classic Christmas songs resonate with warmth, evoking nostalgic memories of past holiday seasons while creating new ones. One cannot talk …
Dec 22 2023
“Sugar Rum Cherry,” a reimagined rendition of “Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy” released in 1960 and arranged by Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, is one of Duke Ellington’s most celebrated compositions. Known for his innovative and transformative approach to music, Ellington effectively recasts Tchaikovsky’s classic piece from The Nutcracker Suite, imbuing it with his distinct jazz …
Dec 19 2023
Considered one of the pivotal figures in the 1960s folk revival, Phil Ochs was born on this day December 19, 1940. His music, deeply rooted in social and political commentary, served as a beacon of hope and resistance amidst the turmoil and upheaval of his time. Ochs was more than just a singer-songwriter; he was …
Dec 18 2023
The vibrant world of Martha and the Muffins is one that is replete with creativity, originality, and a distinctive musical approach that has charmed audiences for decades. This Canadian new wave band, formed in 1977, has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of contemporary music with their unique blend of rock and pop elements. The …
Dec 16 2023
Benny Andersson, a Swedish composer, producer, and musician, is best known for his significant contributions to the music industry. Born on this day December 16, 1946, Andersson’s musical journey began at an early age with his father and grandfather who were also musicians. However, it was his involvement in the international pop sensation, ABBA, that …
Dec 14 2023
Born in London on this day December 14, 1946, Jane Birkin embarked on a journey that would see her evolve from a young actress into a global icon. Her career is characterized by a unique blend of talent and charisma, coupled with a distinctive sense of style that continues to resonate in contemporary culture. In …
Dec 12 2023
Born Yewubdar Gebru on December 12, 1923, Ethiopian pianist, composer, and nun Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou is known for her free-spirited piano playing of compositions where notes flit with ease up and down pentatonic (five-note) scales. Her playing is heartfelt and instinctive, skillfully moving around the keyboard without a hitch. The scales heard in much of her music are representative …
Dec 11 2023
McCoy Tyner, the legendary American jazz pianist, is celebrated for his soul-stirring compositions and improvisations that have elevated the genre to new heights. Born as Alfred McCoy Tyner on this day December 11, 1938 in Philadelphia, his journey in music began at a tender age of 13 when he started exploring the world of piano. …
Dec 10 2023
Born on this day December 10, 1957 in London, England, Paul Hardcastle, an English composer and musician, has been a transformative figure in the music industry, particularly in the realms of contemporary jazz and electronic music. He burst onto the scene in the mid-80s with his groundbreaking hit, “19,” a socio-political commentary set to an innovative …
Dec 08 2023
Born on this day December 8, 1943 in Melbourne, Florida, Jim Morrison, the legendary frontman of The Doors, was a figure of enigma who transformed the landscape of rock music with his distinctive voice and profound lyrics. Known as the “Lizard King,” Morrison’s artistic persona was as iconic as his music, making him one of …
