The world of jazz is so wide that trying to narrow it down may be a problem. Yes, it is that hard to pin down its history since Jazz music has evolved building a strong legacy of which the world enjoys now.
Of course, these diverse yet historic eras did not just form a legacy on their own but with the help of certain innovators whose passion and love for jazz music instigated and ignited a staunch group of jazz lovers.
Some musicians have innovated, inspired, and impacted every upcoming generation behind them, hence, it would be bold to say that jazz music would not be what it is today without them.
Deciding to finally give answers and also satiate the curiosity of folks who are lovers of jazz music, this article discusses just 7 of the best new jazz music artists the world has ever witnessed.
1) MILES DAVIS
Miles Davis had been an incredible musician with so much uniqueness in his sound which earned him the love of many trumpeters turned followers.
He used to play in Charlie Parker's band (read on to know more about the impacts of Charlie Parker also) but later formed his band.
He moved from behop to modal jazz and then majored in Jazz fusion during the introduction of electronic instruments.
It could be said that Miles' music was versatile and was not limited as he loved playing covers of pop songs. Miles, despite his popularity still took time to build several bands of young and upcoming musicians like Keith Jarrett, Bill Evans, John Coltrane, John Scofield, and many more who later became jazz idols in their own right.
2) LOUIS ARMSTRONG
Louis Armstrong who was born in 1901 was arguably the first major jazz star known for his gravelly voice recognized on pop hits and his admirable ability for playing the trumpet skillfully; particularly for his recordings in the 1902s which significantly helped in improving the world of jazz and shifting its focus to individual soloist. This musical revolution Louis led is recognized and has proved useful in Jazz music today.
3) MARY LOU WILLIAMS
Mary Lou Williams, who is recognized as one of the first successful women in the world of Jazz, was said to have begun playing at the age of 13.
It was said that she was playing alongside Duke Ellington at that time and ended up collaborating with a bunch of early Jazz artists to the point of having more than 100 records at a very young age.
Due to her admirable impacts and success at an early age, she became a mentor to younger musicians who later infused the world of jazz with likewise impacts.
4) ELLA FITZGERALD
Ella, born in 1917, was believed to have so much ability and uniqueness that transcended into the world of Jazz music as soon as she joined.
Maybe this is due to her singing ability which was perceived to be more like a skill, having the finesse of combining the perfect timing and intonation with her breathing and fun-filled voice.
Ella became a star bandleader who recorded extensively and was rewarded with 13 Grammy awards for her hard work.
In 1945, her recording of "Flying Home" became a landmark in Jazz scat singing.
5) CHARLIE PARKER
Charlie Parker was used to be known as "Bird Yard", "Bird", "Charlie Chan" and "Sparrow". These nicknames reveal how much of an influential and down-to-earth person he was.
He was an American saxophonist, a bandleader, and a composer who was also a soloist always found at the forefront of developing behop which was accompanied with past tempos and advanced harmonies.
All of these made people consider him the greatest jazz saxophonist.
However, one of the greatest and most memorable impacts he had was his introduction of the leading of twelve notes of the chromatic scale to any key after discovering it himself.
6) THELONIOUS MONK
Thelonious Monk gained fame in the world of Jazz as a pianist and composer. This could have been attributed to his uniqueness of not wanting the old and conventional style of music. He changed this by improvising styles and making substantial contributions to the already standard jazz repertoire.
"Round Midnight" is agreeably Monk's most recognized tune. He had a specialty in creating modern Jazz and behop.
In 1954, Monk recorded a tune, "Bags groove" with Miles Davis, which is sometimes argued to be his best piano solo ever.
7) BILLIE HOLIDAY
Billie Holiday was born Eleonora Fagan. She was recognized as an American Jazz and Swing Music singer.
It was said that she was considered to be one of the best vocalists of all time.
Billie was majorly influenced vocally by Louis Armstrong as it could be felt in her renditions.
Billie also known as "Lady-day" was a remarkable singer who served as an inspiration for a generation of jazz vocalists.
Knowing fully well that there are still more to be discussed and appreciated; we hope this article has, at least, given you insight into some of the heroes of Jazz music. Follow us on the following platforms to discover more.