The Great Debate: John Coltrane vs Miles Davis in Jazz
Choosing between John Coltrane and Miles Davis is challenging as both are monumental figures in jazz with unique styles and significant contributions. This article delves into the nuances of their legacies, exploring why one might prefer the innovative approach of Miles Davis or the emotional depth of John Coltrane.
Miles Davis: Innovation and Genre-Blending
Miles Davis is renowned for his innovative approach and ability to evolve with the times. His work spans various styles including bebop, cool jazz, hard bop, modal jazz, and jazz fusion. Albums like Kind of Blue and Bitches Brew showcase his ability to push boundaries and create new musical landscapes. Davis was a master of collaboration, often bringing together talented musicians who would go on to have their own influential careers.
Kind of Blue and the later Bitches Brew both exemplify Davis's commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz. With Kind of Blue, Davis explored modal jazz, a style that allowed for less strict chord progressions and more improvisation. Bitches Brew, on the other hand, ushered in the era of jazz fusion, blending elements of rock and funk into jazz music.
John Coltrane: Emotional Depth and Technical Prowess
John Coltrane is celebrated for his intense spirituality and technical prowess. His work in modal jazz and avant-garde jazz, especially in albums like A Love Supreme and Giant Steps, demonstrates a deep exploration of musical themes and complex improvisation. Coltrane's saxophone playing is characterized by a powerful emotional depth and a quest for transcendence through music.
A Love Supreme is widely considered one of the most profound recordings in jazz, known for its spiritual undertones and emotional intensity. Giant Steps showcases Coltrane's technical genius and his ability to push the limits of improvisation and composition.
Personal Insights: Davis and Coltrane's Influence
Though I am a saxophonist, Miles Davis has had a bigger influence on my playing and career. This is due to a number of factors but mainly how he composed and how he constantly explored new directions in his music. I never wanted to be a 'star' but rather a sideman who coloured others' compositions. So Davis's abilities and proclivities inspired me to widen my understanding of many different kinds of jazz, classical music, music from countries like Ghana, West Africa, and India, and then I could apply what I learned to help others become stars or, at the very least, realize their goals as a bandleader.
Coltrane, on the other hand, because 'influence' goes beyond the music made by the individuals. Davis was not a person beyond his music who inspired me, nor does his music take me to where Coltrane's does. Many of the musicians who consciously and humbly acknowledge Coltrane's influence on them have also made music that inspires and transports me. Coltrane's legacy in other words is more essential in my life.
In summary, if you prefer innovation and genre-blending, you might lean toward Miles Davis. If you favor emotional depth and technical exploration, John Coltrane might resonate more. Ultimately, both musicians are essential to jazz and their legacies continue to inspire countless artists.