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Introduction of Jazz Music
Jazz is a genre of music that originated in the African-American communities of New Orleans, United States, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is characterized by its use of improvisation, complex harmonic structures, and a wide range of musical influences, including blues, gospel, and European classical music. Jazz is known for its swing rhythm, which is created by the use of syncopated rhythms and a strong pulse. It is often played by small ensembles, such as a quintet or sextet, and is known for its ability to adapt to a wide range of musical contexts and styles. Jazz has had a significant influence on many other genres of music, and has been an important part of the cultural fabric of the United States and the rest of the world for more than a century.
Jazz by Nagamag Playlist on Spotify
Recent Jazz Interviews
Anton Commissaris Interview on Nagamag
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Nagamag:
Which are the genres that describe your music style better?
Anton Commissaris:
Jazz - vocal, with notes of blues, soul, rhythm and blues, and gospel styles.
Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?
Anton Commissaris:
I am a Jazz composer, pianist, and vocalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. I released my first EP - On A Bright Note - in February 2021. I have a new single - Lonely Bay - released on September 24, 2021, and a second EP - Out of the Blue - coming out in October 2021.
Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?
Anton Commissaris:
I had heard music on the radio but the first time I felt a true connection was when at about 9 years old, I listened to an album by Joe Cocker - With a Little Help from My Friends. Cocker's voice was raw, bluesy, and powerfully emotional. It struck a chord with me. Intrigued, I began to play the record over and over. Two songs, in particular, stood out for me - the title track - With a Little Help from My Friends - and - She Came in Through the Bathroom Window. I didn't realize it at the time, but these were both Lennon-McCartney covers. I would later become a huge Beatles fan, impressed particularly by the fact that they composed, played, and sung their own music.
Nagamag:
How did you become a fan of Jazz music?
Anton Commissaris:
My mother was into Jazz music and she played a lot of records that I picked up on when I was young. When I was learning the piano at an early age, she also had Jazz sheet music laying around that I would learn how to play. I remember, in particular, being impressed by - Smoke Gets in Your Eyes. During my college years, I picked up on Frank Sinatra and many of the other great singers of the American Song Book. As an alternative to all the other standard pop music of the day, we would play this at parties and have a lot of fun, while others were somewhat confused by our retro tastes. Then after, playing classical piano for a number of years, I drifted back into Jazz and fell in love with that style of music all over again.
Nagamag:
Many artists listen to genres that they are not producing music for. Which track is your favorite that is NOT similar to yours?
Anton Commissaris:
The Beatles "For No One"
Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which is the track from a similar artist you admire?
Anton Commissaris:
Sarah Vaughan "Misty"
Soto Interview on Nagamag.com
Soto
Interview
Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?
Soto:
Jazz, R&B, Funk, Soul, Neo-Soul, Hip-hop. New to the UK Jazz scene, Soto is a trio born out of Brighton with a foot in the doors of Jazz, R&B, Funk & Soul. Blending intricate rhythms and unique melodies, their feel is both a tribute to the scene, and something new altogether.
Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?
Soto:
Soto aim to make their audiences smile and groove with their work; something which undeniably helps this is the chemistry between the three founding members. Having all met in their first year at medical school, music was initially something of a side-hustle, but as the years passed it became more and more an integral to them as individuals and as a collective. Now, with their time at university drawing to a close, and a debut EP online, there'll be at least a few heads wondering what will be coming next from these guys.
Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?
Soto:
The feeling that first connected each of us to music is re-experienced on a regular basis. There is a deeply moving experience that arises when hearing the work of artists that touch us, and this similarly is something that is felt when we connect musically as a collective or as individuals. Music is possibly the most significant bringer of joy in any of our lives, which is why we are so determined - even with careers as doctors ready to begin - to make this a central part of our future. A life without music would always feel empty in a way.
Nagamag:
What do YOU enjoy most about writing and playing your music?
Soto:
We are all genuinely dedicated to the musical journey that we're on together. There's nothing better than when we meet for band practice and one of us says 'I've been working on this recently - what do you think?' and plays something beautiful. Many of our songs have come from one person bringing an idea forward for us to jam with, or quite literally just appearing from jams. This makes the process of writing so fun, and something we always look forward to. Similarly, what could be more fun than bringing music into a live setting? We love to improvise and leave lots of room for our songs to be different each time they are played so we can fully express ourselves musically any time we meet - we think of music as a conversation between the three of us and any listeners that may be present.
Nagamag:
Where do you see yourselves going musically?
Soto:
We hope to continue to challenge ourselves. We are always trying to explore new themes, try new things and push each other more and more musically, and this is something we hope to keep going. What we aim to do is continue writing music and hopefully entertaining people with our work. We would love to carve our a career in music, and we are so driven to this that we hope we're fortunate enough to just get that break that we need to make this viable. Whatever happens though, we want to enjoy every step of the way and be present in this journey, wherever it may go.
Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?
Soto:
Celeste "Both Sides of The Moon"
Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?
Soto:
Prime Panda "State Your Business"
Jazz Featured Releases
Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING) – Doc Flux
“Very easy listening, soft vibe and atmosphere and a perfect jazz harmonic structure. Blissful piano theme in the and dreamy guitar riffs, that will put your mind at ease. Arrangement was good and nicely thought out with smooth and almost cinematic feeling, especially with saxophone solo part.”
-Nagamag.com
Expand to read review translations *
“Πολύ εύκολη ακρόαση, απαλή ατμόσφαιρα και ατμόσφαιρα και τέλεια αρμονική δομή τζαζ. Ευχάριστο θέμα πιάνου στα και ονειρικά riff της κιθάρας, που θα σας χαλαρώσουν. Η διασκευή ήταν καλή και καλά μελετημένη με απαλή και σχεδόν κινηματογραφική αίσθηση, ειδικά με σόλο μέρος του σαξόφωνου.”
-Nagamag.com
“Muy fácil de escuchar, vibra y atmósfera suaves y una estructura armónica de jazz perfecta. Un maravilloso tema de piano y riffs de guitarra de ensueño que te tranquilizarán. El arreglo fue bueno y bien pensado con una sensación suave y casi cinematográfica, especialmente con la parte solista de saxofón.”
-Nagamag.com
The original review of “Doc Flux – Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)” is written in the native language that is spoken by the dedicated, for this song, Nagamag’s Jazz reviewer and followed by two translations*, of which the one depends from the country of origin of the artist “Doc Flux” (United Kingdom) and the other one is translated to a different language than original review and the country of origin of the artist.
* Automatically Translated
Nagamag unveils the mesmerizing composition “Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)”, an extraordinary creation of harmony and creativity that “Doc Flux” offered to all of us. A Jazz song, which evoked an emotional voyage to our curator that desired to write down a unique review for “Doc Flux – Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)”. What also sets this song among the featured choices of Nagamag is the way that “Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)” is enriched with Electronica characteristics. “Doc Flux – Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)” is a rich music creation that deserves to be listened to again and again. Nagamag is honored to share this detailed music review by one of our experienced reviewers for Jazz music compositions. As always, Nagamag keeps up evaluating Jazz songs from across the globe, ensuring that all Jazz enthusiasts around the world have access to these auditory treasures .
Jazz home page where “Doc Flux – Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)” is hosted on Nagamag Music Magazine
Nagamag takes pride in supporting Jazz artists like “Doc Flux”, providing music reviews and music discoveries like “Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)”.
This music post about song “Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)” by “Doc Flux” is hosted in Jazz page on Nagamag.
There you can find similar Jazz artists to “Doc Flux” and more Jazz, Electronica songs like “Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)” that have been carefully selected by Nagamag’s Jazz experienced curators and reviewed by Nagamag’s Jazz dedicated reviewers.
Learn everything about Jazz on Wikipedia
If you enjoyed “Doc Flux – Blocks – (LIVE LOOPING)” but you have never listened before to any other Jazz song or you are interested in learning more about Jazz music gerne then click here to visit Jazz music page on Wikipedia.
Jazz music refers to a distinct style with common characteristics. Each genre carries its unique sound, instruments, and cultural influences. For a deeper understanding of Jazz music, Wikipedia provides comprehensive insights into its history, notable artists, and iconic works. Delve into the diverse and dynamic world of Jazz music through this valuable resource, broadening your knowledge around Jazz genre.
Michael Eastwood – Still Sweet | Jazz music review
“Начиная с первых джазовых нот, вы окунаетесь в мир изысканных мелодий, утонченного вокала и красивой аранжировки. Романтическая атмосфера трека создает ощущение легкости и непринужденности, словно вы плывете на волнах. Мелодичные фразы нежно и спокойной переплетаются друг с другом, создавая уникальное звучание, которое сложно передать словами.”
-Nagamag.com
Expand to read review translations *
“Starting from the first jazz notes, you plunge into a world of exquisite melodies, sophisticated vocals and beautiful arrangements. The romantic atmosphere of the track creates a feeling of lightness and ease, as if you are floating on the waves. Melodic phrases gently and calmly intertwine with each other, creating a unique sound that is difficult to convey in words.”
-Nagamag.com
“Ξεκινώντας από τις πρώτες νότες της τζαζ, βυθίζεσαι σε έναν κόσμο εξαιρετικών μελωδιών, εκλεπτυσμένων φωνητικών και όμορφων διασκευών. Η ρομαντική ατμόσφαιρα της πίστας δημιουργεί μια αίσθηση ελαφρότητας και ευκολίας, σαν να επιπλέετε στα κύματα. Οι μελωδικές φράσεις μπλέκονται απαλά και ήρεμα μεταξύ τους, δημιουργώντας έναν μοναδικό ήχο που δύσκολα μεταφέρεται με λέξεις.”
-Nagamag.com
The original review of “Michael Eastwood – Still Sweet” is written in the native language that is spoken by the dedicated, for this song, Nagamag’s Jazz reviewer and followed by two translations*, of which the one depends from the country of origin of the artist “Michael Eastwood” (United Kingdom) and the other one is translated to a different language than original review and the country of origin of the artist.
* Automatically Translated
Nagamag unveils the mesmerizing composition “Still Sweet”, an extraordinary creation of harmony and creativity that “Michael Eastwood” offered to all of us. A Jazz song, which evoked an emotional voyage to our curator that desired to write down a unique review for “Michael Eastwood – Still Sweet”. What also sets this song among the featured choices of Nagamag is the way that “Still Sweet” is enriched with Indie Jazz characteristics. “Michael Eastwood – Still Sweet” is a rich music creation that deserves to be listened to again and again. Nagamag is honored to share this detailed music review by one of our experienced reviewers for Jazz music compositions. As always, Nagamag keeps up evaluating Jazz songs from across the globe, ensuring that all Jazz enthusiasts around the world have access to these auditory treasures .
Jazz home page where “Michael Eastwood – Still Sweet” is hosted on Nagamag Music Magazine
Nagamag takes pride in supporting Jazz artists like “Michael Eastwood”, providing music reviews and music discoveries like “Still Sweet”.
This music post about song “Still Sweet” by “Michael Eastwood” is hosted in Jazz page on Nagamag.
There you can find similar Jazz artists to “Michael Eastwood” and more Jazz, Indie Jazz songs like “Still Sweet” that have been carefully selected by Nagamag’s Jazz experienced curators and reviewed by Nagamag’s Jazz dedicated reviewers.
Learn everything about Jazz on Wikipedia
If you enjoyed “Michael Eastwood – Still Sweet” but you have never listened before to any other Jazz song or you are interested in learning more about Jazz music gerne then click here to visit Jazz music page on Wikipedia.
Jazz music refers to a distinct style with common characteristics. Each genre carries its unique sound, instruments, and cultural influences. For a deeper understanding of Jazz music, Wikipedia provides comprehensive insights into its history, notable artists, and iconic works. Delve into the diverse and dynamic world of Jazz music through this valuable resource, broadening your knowledge around Jazz genre.
Arman Ayva – Smooth No1 | Jazz music review
“Τα μαγικά και ονειρεμένα αγγίγματα της μελωδίας μας προσφέρουν μια απολαυστική και ξέγνοιαστη διάθεση, αλλά και ισορροπία. Ο εκλεπτυσμένος και ευχάριστος ρυθμός μας κάνει να νιώθουμε πιο ανάλαφροι χωρίς κάτι να μας βαραίνει, αδειάζοντας το μυαλό μας από τις σκέψεις. Σίγουρα είναι ένα μουσικό κομμάτι που θες να ακούς ξανά και ξανά στις ήσυχες βόλτες σου.”
-Nagamag.com
Expand to read review translations *
“The magical and dreamy touches of the melody offer us a delightful and carefree mood, as well as balance. The refined and pleasant rhythm makes us feel lighter without anything weighing us down, emptying our mind of thoughts. It is definitely a piece of music that you want to listen to over and over again on your quiet walks.”
-Nagamag.com
“Los toques mágicos y oníricos de la melodía nos ofrecen un estado de ánimo delicioso y desenfadado, además de equilibrio. El ritmo refinado y placentero nos hace sentir más ligeros sin que nada nos pese, vaciando nuestra mente de pensamientos. Definitivamente es una pieza musical que querrás escuchar una y otra vez en tus tranquilos paseos.”
-Nagamag.com
The original review of “Arman Ayva – Smooth No1” is written in the native language that is spoken by the dedicated, for this song, Nagamag’s Jazz reviewer and followed by two translations*, of which the one depends from the country of origin of the artist “Arman Ayva” (Canada) and the other one is translated to a different language than original review and the country of origin of the artist.
* Automatically Translated
Nagamag unveils the mesmerizing composition “Smooth No1”, an extraordinary creation of harmony and creativity that “Arman Ayva” offered to all of us. A Jazz song, which evoked an emotional voyage to our curator that desired to write down a unique review for “Arman Ayva – Smooth No1”. What also sets this song among the featured choices of Nagamag is the way that “Smooth No1” is enriched with Jazztronica characteristics. “Arman Ayva – Smooth No1” is a rich music creation that deserves to be listened to again and again. Nagamag is honored to share this detailed music review by one of our experienced reviewers for Jazz music compositions. As always, Nagamag keeps up evaluating Jazz songs from across the globe, ensuring that all Jazz enthusiasts around the world have access to these auditory treasures .
Jazz home page where “Arman Ayva – Smooth No1” is hosted on Nagamag Music Magazine
Nagamag takes pride in supporting Jazz artists like “Arman Ayva”, providing music reviews and music discoveries like “Smooth No1”.
This music post about song “Smooth No1” by “Arman Ayva” is hosted in Jazz page on Nagamag.
There you can find similar Jazz artists to “Arman Ayva” and more Jazz, Jazztronica songs like “Smooth No1” that have been carefully selected by Nagamag’s Jazz experienced curators and reviewed by Nagamag’s Jazz dedicated reviewers.
Learn everything about Jazz on Wikipedia
If you enjoyed “Arman Ayva – Smooth No1” but you have never listened before to any other Jazz song or you are interested in learning more about Jazz music gerne then click here to visit Jazz music page on Wikipedia.
Jazz music refers to a distinct style with common characteristics. Each genre carries its unique sound, instruments, and cultural influences. For a deeper understanding of Jazz music, Wikipedia provides comprehensive insights into its history, notable artists, and iconic works. Delve into the diverse and dynamic world of Jazz music through this valuable resource, broadening your knowledge around Jazz genre.
Latest Jazz discoveries
Old Lucia Song – Per Thornberg
Ethereal melodies and gentle textures with this enchanting and soothing song. Its harmonic structure brings depth of emotions... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #jazz #holidaymusic #perthornberg #sweden #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Spirit Dance Parts I and II – Ambient Jazz Ensemble
Amazing jazz song with smooth harmonic structure behind it. Full of catchy piano riffs, trumpet themes, funky vibe and smooth... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #nujazz #jazztronica #jazzfusion #jazz #ambientjazzensemble #unitedkingdom #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Moanin – Bastian Weinig
Smooth and very easy listening sounds make this song very enjoyable. Catchy piano themes and kontrabass fit so well, creating... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #jazz #bastianweinig #germany #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Miss Missed Connection – Sweet Magnolia
Song catches you right away. Nice instrumentation, especially its trumpet themes, that feels so epic in a way. Great producti... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #jazz #retrosoul #sweetmagnolia #unitedstates #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Ice On Fire – th&o.
Η ένταση και η ζωντάνια του ρυθμού μας ξεσηκώνει και μας διασκεδάζει χωρίς όρια. Τα εξαιρετικά φωνητικά κάνουν την καρδιά μας... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #contemporaryrnb #th&o #southafrica #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Do You Think That Santa Celebrates Halloween? – Kyle Cox
Η γιορτινή μελωδία ζεσταίνει τις καρδίες μας και το κεφάτο σαξόφωνο μας γεμίζει χαρά. Τα υπέροχα και καθαρά φωνητικά παιχνιδί... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #jazz #holidaymusic #kylecox #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
All I Want For Christmas Is One More Beer (Fake X-mas Song) – Mighty Joe Belson
Η γλυκιά μελωδία με το ταπεραμέντο και την ευκίνητη ροή της δημιουργεί όμορφες εικόνες στο μυαλό μας. Ένα γιορτινό χορευτικό ... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #jazz #holidaymusic #mightyjoebelson #unitedstates #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Baked Potato – Liz Nash
Ένα όμορφο ρομαντικό ταξίδι μέσα από την γλυκιά αυτή μελωδία που την απολαμβάνουμε χωρίς αμφιβολία. Η κιθάρα στο 2:00 κάνει τ... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #indiefolk #jazz #liznash #unitedstates #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Santa’s Sleigh – Greg Johnson
Μια όμορφη γιορτή στήνεται και η χαρούμενη μελωδία φοράει τα καλά της διώχνοντας μακριά τις έγνοιες και τα προβλήματα, ενώ το... >>> Read full review & listen to the song on Nagamag #jazz #adultcontemporary #gregjohnson #unitedstates #nagamag #musicmagazine #musicreview #review
Some Jazz subgenres
There are many subgenres of jazz, and the boundaries between them can be somewhat fluid. Here are a few of the most common subgenres of jazz:
Dixieland jazz: Also known as “traditional” or “New Orleans” jazz, this style is characterized by its use of collective improvisation and a strong rhythm section, featuring instruments such as the trumpet, trombone, and clarinet.
Swing: This style emerged in the 1930s and 1940s and is characterized by its use of a swinging rhythm and big band instrumentation. It was popularized by bands led by musicians such as Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman.
Bebop: This style emerged in the 1940s and is characterized by its fast tempo, complex chord progressions, and extensive use of improvisation. It was popularized by musicians such as Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie.
Cool jazz: This style emerged in the 1950s and is characterized by its use of complex harmonies and a laid-back, relaxed approach to rhythm. It was popularized by musicians such as Miles Davis and Dave Brubeck.
Fusion: This style emerged in the 1970s and is characterized by its incorporation of elements from other genres of music, such as rock, funk, and world music. It was popularized by musicians such as John McLaughlin and Chick Corea.
Smooth jazz: This style emerged in the 1980s and is characterized by its use of electronic instrumentation and a focus on melody and groove. It was popularized by musicians such as George Benson and Grover Washington Jr.
Hard bop: This style emerged in the 1950s and is characterized by its use of blues and gospel influences and its incorporation of elements from bebop and swing. It was popularized by musicians such as Horace Silver and Art Blakey.
Free jazz: This style emerged in the 1960s and is characterized by its use of extended improvisation and a lack of strict chord progressions or other formal structures. It was popularized by musicians such as Ornette Coleman and John Coltrane.
Latin jazz: This style is characterized by its incorporation of Latin American rhythms and melodies, as well as its use of percussion instruments such as congas, timbales, and bongos. It was popularized by musicians such as Tito Puente and Cal Tjader.
Acid jazz: This style emerged in the 1980s and is characterized by its incorporation of elements from funk, soul, and hip hop, as well as its use of electronic instrumentation. It was popularized by musicians such as Brand New Heavies and Jamiroquai.
Jazz-rock: This style emerged in the 1970s and is characterized by its incorporation of elements from rock music and its use of electric instruments. It was popularized by musicians such as Mahavishnu Orchestra and Weather Report.
Jazz-funk: This style is characterized by its incorporation of elements from funk music and its use of electric instruments and groove-based rhythms. It was popularized by musicians such as James Brown and George Clinton.
As with any genre of music, these subgenres are just a few of the many that exist within the broader category of jazz. There are many other styles and variations within jazz.
The most used instruments in Jazz Music
There are many different instruments that are commonly used in jazz music, and the specific instruments used can vary depending on the style and context of the music. Here are a few of the most common instruments used in jazz:
Piano: The piano is a common instrument in jazz music and is often used to provide the harmonic foundation for the music. Jazz pianists may use a range of techniques, including comping (providing chordal accompaniment), soloing (performing a melodic solo), and improvising (creating music spontaneously).
Drums: The drums are an important part of the rhythm section in jazz music and are often used to create a swinging or groove-based feel. Jazz drummers may use a range of techniques, including various stick and cymbal patterns, to create complex rhythms and interactive interactions with other musicians.
Bass: The bass is another important part of the rhythm section in jazz music and is often used to provide the foundation for the music. Jazz bassists may use a range of techniques, including walking bass lines (a repeating pattern of notes played over the chord progression of a song) and soloing, to create a strong rhythmic and melodic foundation for the music.
Guitar: The guitar is often used in jazz music and can play a variety of roles, from providing chordal accompaniment to soloing. Jazz guitarists may use a range of techniques, including chord voicings (arrangements of notes in a chord), arpeggios (broken chords played one note at a time), and improvisation, to create complex and interesting musical textures.
Saxophone: The saxophone is a common instrument in jazz music and is often used to play melodies and improvise solos. Jazz saxophonists may use a range of techniques, including alternate fingerings, multiphonics (playing more than one pitch at a time), and circular breathing (a technique for continuous blowing), to create a wide range of sounds and textures.
Vocals: Vocals are often used in jazz music, and many jazz singers have made significant contributions to the genre. Jazz vocals can take many forms, ranging from scat singing (improvised vocalizations using nonsense syllables) to more traditional vocal styles such as singing with lyrics. Some famous jazz singers include Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong, all of whom are known for their unique vocal styles and ability to improvise.
In addition to traditional vocals, many jazz musicians also use electronic effects and processing to manipulate their voices, creating a wide range of sounds and textures. Some jazz musicians, such as Bobby McFerrin and Gregory Porter, have made significant contributions to the genre using only their voices, without any accompanying instruments.
In jazz music, lyrics are often used in the same way as in other genres of music, to express emotions, tell a story, or convey a message. However, jazz lyrics may also be used to create a structure for improvisation or to provide a basis for scat singing, which is a form of vocal improvisation in which the singer uses nonsense syllables instead of actual words.
Jazz lyrics may also be more abstract and poetic than lyrics in other genres of music, and may use figurative language or symbolism to convey meaning. Jazz lyrics often reflect the social and cultural contexts in which the music was created, and may address themes such as love, loss, hope, and social or political issues.
Overall, vocals and the meaning of lyrics in jazz music depends on the context in which they are used and the intentions of the songwriter. They can be used to express emotions, tell a story, convey a message, or provide a structure for the music to follow.