Jazz books open up a whole new world, giving you a peek into the lives of legendary musicians, how the genre came to be, and the social and political climates that shaped it. Whether you're a hardcore jazz fan or just starting, the right books can deepen your love for jazz and help you discover what makes this music unique.
Written by the jazz legend Louis Armstrong, this rich tale of his early days in New Orleans delves into his departure from Chicago at a young age to play with his idol, King Oliver, and how his life as a jazz musician began.
Sidney Bechet, a legendary figure on the clarinet and soprano saxophone, was one of the most remarkable talents in New Orleans jazz. He played alongside jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. In his own words, Bechet shares a vibrant, expressive, and often humorous account of his lyrical journey as a musician.
Miles Davis, one of the most influential musicians in the world, opens up for the first time after a five-year silence. He speaks openly about how he overcame his drug problem and his encounters with racism in the music industry, discusses the women in his life, and talks about music legends he's played with, including Dizzy Gillespie and Charles Mingus.
Delving deep into jazz's origins and evolution, Gioia takes readers on a rhythmic journey through the decades, exploring rich sounds and stories that have shaped jazz into what it is today. From its birth in vibrant New Orleans to its global influence, The History of Jazz celebrates the spirit and brilliance of this wonderful music genre.
Through vivid storytelling and thorough research, Nicolson takes readers through the life of the first lady of jazz, Ella Fitzgerald. Nicholson weaves together personal and professional aspects of Fitzgerald's life, providing a comprehensive look into the woman's life behind the iconic voice. From her humble beginnings in Virginia to her rise to international fame, this biography explores the challenges and triumphs of Ella's career.
As the biographer of Louis Armstrong, Terry Teachout brings a rare depth of insight to the story of Duke Ellington's public and private lives. Teachout strips away the many layers of Ellington's public persona to reveal the unfiltered truth about the creative genius who inspired Miles Davis to declare, "All the musicians should get together one certain day and get down on their knees and thank Duke."
This captivating book takes you on a fascinating journey through the life of one of jazz's biggest legends. You'll feel right there in the vibrant streets of New Orleans, where a young Louis Armstrong first fell in love with the city's soulful sounds. From his tough early years in poor neighborhoods to his rise as a world-famous trumpeter, this book shares the incredible story of a true musical genius.
In this expertly crafted and compelling study, New York Times jazz critic Ben Ratliff delves into the life of John Coltrane, the celebrated band leader and deeply spiritual figure who revolutionized jazz. Ratliff explores jazz in the broader context of other art forms and the tumultuous currents of American social history, positioning Coltrane not just as a giant in the world of jazz but as one of the greatest American artists of all time.
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