They Say It's Wonderful - John Coltrane
"They Say It's Wonderful" is a classic jazz standard performed by the legendary saxophonist John Coltrane. The song was originally composed by Irving Berlin for the musical "Annie Get Your Gun" in 1946, but Coltrane's interpretation adds a whole new dimension to the piece. The theme of the song revolves around the joy and wonder of falling in love. The lyrics speak to the euphoria and excitement that comes with finding that special someone. Coltrane's rendition of the song captures this sentiment beautifully through his soulful saxophone playing. The composition of the track features a lush arrangement with Coltrane's smooth and melodic saxophone lines taking center stage. The backing band provides a rich harmonic backdrop, complementing Coltrane's improvisations with tasteful accompaniment. One notable fact about this recording is Coltrane's unique approach to the melody. He takes liberties with the phrasing and rhythm, adding his own creative flair to the song. This showcases his incredible skill as an improviser and his ability to breathe new life into familiar tunes. Overall, "They Say It's Wonderful" is a timeless jazz standard that showcases John Coltrane's artistry and musical prowess. His interpretation of the song is a testament to his talent as a musician and his ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
John Coltrane
John Coltrane was an influential American jazz saxophonist and composer who revolutionized the world of jazz music with his innovative approach to improvisation and composition. Born on September 23, 1926, in Hamlet, North Carolina, Coltrane showed a natural talent for music from a young age. Coltrane's musical journey began when he started playing the alto saxophone in high school, and he quickly mastered the instrument. After serving in the Navy during World War II, Coltrane moved to Philadelphia, where he began his professional music career. He played with various jazz bands before joining the Miles Davis Quintet in the 1950s. It was during his time with Davis that Coltrane began to develop his signature "sheets of sound" style, characterized by rapid-fire improvisation and complex harmonic structures. He went on to form his own quartet in the early 1960s, which included pianist McCoy Tyner, bassist Jimmy Garrison, and drummer Elvin Jones. This quartet became known for its intense and spiritual performances, which pushed the boundaries of traditional jazz music. Coltrane's most famous and influential album, "A Love Supreme," was released in 1965 and is considered a masterpiece of modern jazz. The album, which was inspired by Coltrane's spiritual awakening, features four suites that explore themes of love, faith, and spirituality. "A Love Supreme" solidified Coltrane's reputation as a groundbreaking artist and cemented his legacy in the world of jazz music. Throughout his career, Coltrane continued to push the boundaries of jazz music, experimenting with new techniques and incorporating elements of world music into his compositions. His influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians, from jazz legends like Pharoah Sanders and Alice Coltrane to contemporary artists like Kamasi Washington and Thundercat. John Coltrane's impact on music cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to improvisation and composition helped to redefine the jazz genre and inspire generations of musicians. His legacy continues to resonate today, and his music remains a powerful and enduring influence on the world of jazz and beyond.