If you prefer the more contemporary sound of jazz, guitarist Earl Klugh sets the standard. George Benson’s roots lie in traditional jazz but migrated more toward the pop or ‘smooth’ side during the 70s and 80s, establishing his own instantly recognizable musical stye.
The Beegie Adair Trio provides a gentle swinging version of the jazz classic “Autumn Leaves,” written by Joseph Kosma (English lyric by Johnny Mercer), live at the Nashville Jazz Workshop in Nashville, Tennessee. Listen for the way bassist Roger Spencer throws a few bars of “Suicide Is Painless” from M*A*S*H* into his solo!
Beegie is a huge but lesser known talent who never fully received the recognition she deserves. She has been playing piano since the age of five … originally from Kentucky, she now lives in Nashville. Her rendition of “Pete Kelly’s Blues” (one of my favorites) is the best I’ve heard outside of the movie soundtrack.
A little adventure into Jazz/R&B with two incredible organists, Jimmy Smith and Jimmy McGriff. Also featuring Herman Riley (sax), Carl Lockett (guitar), and James Levy (drums). Recorded at the Montreux Jazz Festival, July 1992.
An original Billy Taylor composition, recorded in 2001 with Billy on piano, Chip Jackson on bass, and Steve Johns on drums. The tune was written to show what can be done using only the title chord and its three basic notes C, A and G, masterfully manipulated throughout the song.
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