What Is There to Say? - Bill Evans
"What Is There to Say?" is a jazz standard composed by Vernon Duke with lyrics by Yip Harburg. The song was popularized by jazz pianist Bill Evans, who recorded a beautiful rendition of it on his 1962 album "Moon Beams." The track features Evans' signature lyrical and introspective piano playing, accompanied by the impeccable rhythm section of bassist Chuck Israels and drummer Paul Motian. The trio's chemistry is evident throughout the song, with each musician showcasing their musical prowess while maintaining a sense of cohesion. The composition itself is a melancholic ballad that explores themes of love, loss, and longing. The haunting melody is complemented by Evans' delicate touch and emotive phrasing, creating a poignant and introspective atmosphere. The song's bittersweet lyrics reflect on the complexities of relationships and the inevitable heartbreak that often accompanies them. One notable aspect of Evans' interpretation of "What Is There to Say?" is his ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his playing. His sensitive approach to the melody allows for moments of vulnerability and introspection, while his technical proficiency shines through in his intricate improvisations. Overall, "What Is There to Say?" is a timeless jazz standard that showcases Bill Evans' exceptional talent as a pianist and interpreter of music. His rendition of the song remains a classic example of his unique musical voice and continues to captivate listeners with its beauty and emotional depth.
Bill Evans
Bill Evans was an American jazz pianist and composer who was born on August 16, 1929, in Plainfield, New Jersey. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative jazz musicians of his time. Evans started playing piano at the age of six and quickly developed a passion for music. He studied classical piano at Southeastern Louisiana University and later moved to New York City to pursue a career in jazz. Evans gained recognition in the late 1950s when he joined Miles Davis's sextet, where he played a key role in the development of modal jazz. Throughout his career, Evans recorded over 50 albums as a bandleader and collaborated with some of the most prominent jazz musicians of his time, including John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, and Stan Getz. His lyrical and introspective style of playing, characterized by his use of impressionistic harmonies and inventive improvisation, set him apart from his contemporaries and earned him a devoted following. One of Evans's most notable achievements was his groundbreaking trio recordings, particularly the albums Sunday at the Village Vanguard and Waltz for Debby, which are considered classics of the jazz genre. His innovative approach to trio playing, which emphasized interplay and communication between the members of the group, had a lasting impact on the development of jazz piano trio music. In addition to his technical mastery and creative genius, Evans was also known for his introspective and sensitive demeanor, both on and off the stage. His music often reflected his deep emotional sensitivity and introspective nature, engaging listeners on a profound level. Sadly, Bill Evans passed away on September 15, 1980, at the age of 51. Despite his untimely death, his legacy continues to resonate in the world of jazz and beyond. His influence can be heard in the work of countless contemporary jazz pianists, and his music remains a source of inspiration for musicians and music lovers around the world. Bill Evans will always be remembered as a true innovator and master of his craft, whose contributions to the world of music will never be forgotten.