Exploring Genuine Jazz beyond Elevator Music: A Guide for Enthusiasts

Are you tired of the commonplace and inconspicuous elevator music that seems to dominate modern playlists? Jazz, a rich and varied genre, offers a refreshing alternative that captivates with its complexity and authenticity. This genre thrives on its deep history and diverse sounds, inviting listeners to delve into several unique sub-genres.

Understanding the Distinction from Elevator Music

While elevator music typically provides a uniform and soothing background melody, jazz is a far cry from this. Jazz is not heavily commercialized and requires a bit of dedication to explore. It is a genre filled with innovative sounds that are rooted in different eras, from the bebop era to smooth jazz. The key is to dive into the right resources and pay attention to the nuances of the music.

Listening to KCSM: Discovering the Real Thing

One of the best ways to get a taste of genuine jazz is to tune in to KCSM, a radio station that broadcasts live jazz music online. KCSM offers a plethora of jazz songs from various eras, allowing you to experience the true essence of this musical genre. This station can serve as your gateway to exploring more complex and beautiful compositions that are often dismissed as 'elevator music.'

Standards and Iconic Albums Every Jazz Fan Should Know

For jazz enthusiasts, certain tunes are practically iconic. These standards are timeless and have been performed and reinterpreted by countless artists over the years. Here are a few that every fan should know:

“Bye Bye Blackbird” “Sweet Georgia Brown” “The Lady is a Tramp” “The Way You Look Tonight” “Stella by Starlight” “Take The ‘A’ Train” “My Favorite Things” “So What” “Kind of Blue” “Lazy Bird” “Take Five” “Birdland”

Moreover, there are countless symbolic jazz albums by iconic artists that have paved the way for innovation in jazz. Some of the most well-known albums include:

“Blue Train” by John Coltrane “A Love Supreme” by John Coltrane “Time Out” by the Dave Brubeck Quartet “Birth of Cool” by Miles Davis “Miles Ahead” by Miles Davis “Saxophone Colossus” by Sonny Rollins “Lady in Satin” by Billie Holiday “Ella in Hollywood” by Ella Fitzgerald

Each album and each song offers a unique perspective and sound, making jazz a genre that is ever-evolving and accessible to a wide variety of musical tastes.

The Golden Age of Jazz

While jazz is rich in its current forms, it's worth noting that the 1930s to the mid-1970s saw some of the most resonant and influential moments in the genre. Music from this era, collected in albums like the Golden Age of American Popular Music: The Jazz Hits From the Hot 100 1958–1966, offers a direct but modern spin on classic jazz tunes. This album features tracks like Herbie Hancock's “Watermelon Man,” Stan Getz and Charlie Byrd's “Desafinado,” and Larry Holmes' “Misty,” among others.

Some critics and fans have labeled this music as elevator music because it appeals to a broader audience. However, I find this attitude very unfortunate. To the contrary, I believe that broad appeal is essential for the growth and evolution of any genre. Cultivating a wider audience can ensure that more people have the chance to be introduced to the beauty of jazz. These songs, like “Watermelon Man,” can serve as entry points for new listeners to explore the broader jazz catalogue.

By embracing the rich history and ever-evolving nature of jazz, we can continue to appreciate its depth and variety. There is truly so much more to jazz than the often bland and boring smooth jazz or elevator music. Dive into the world of genuine jazz and unlock a world of endless musical discovery.