I Should Care - Thelonious Monk
"I Should Care" is a jazz standard composed by Axel Stordahl, Paul Weston, and Sammy Cahn. Thelonious Monk, a legendary jazz pianist and composer, recorded his version of the song in 1957 for his album "Thelonious Monk Plays Ellington." The track "I Should Care" features Monk's signature style of angular melodies, dissonant harmonies, and rhythmic complexity. Monk's piano playing on this recording is characterized by his unique approach to improvisation, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the listener on their toes. The theme of the song revolves around lost love and heartbreak, with the lyrics expressing longing and regret for a past relationship. Monk's interpretation of the tune adds an emotional depth and complexity to the melancholic lyrics, with his inventive phrasing and use of space creating a sense of tension and release. One notable aspect of Monk's version of "I Should Care" is his innovative reharmonization of the melody, adding unexpected chord substitutions and voicings that give the song a fresh and modern feel. His use of dissonance and tension creates a sense of unease that adds to the emotional impact of the piece. Overall, "I Should Care" by Thelonious Monk is a masterful interpretation of a classic jazz standard, showcasing his unique musical voice and innovative approach to composition and improvisation.
Thelonious Monk
Thelonious Monk was an American jazz pianist and composer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians in the history of jazz. Born on October 10, 1917, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Monk showed an early aptitude for music, learning to play the piano by ear at the age of six. He moved to New York City in 1922 and began studying music at the Juilliard School. Monk's unique playing style and compositions quickly gained him recognition in the jazz world. He was known for his distinctive use of dissonant harmonies, complex rhythms, and angular melodies, which set him apart from other jazz pianists of his time. Throughout his career, Monk recorded numerous albums as both a bandleader and a sideman, collaborating with some of the most influential musicians of the era, including John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Art Blakey. One of Monk's most famous compositions, "Round Midnight," has since become a jazz standard and is considered one of the greatest jazz ballads of all time. His other notable compositions include "Blue Monk," "Straight, No Chaser," and "Ruby, My Dear." In addition to his innovative playing style and compositions, Monk was also known for his idiosyncratic personality and stage presence. He was known for his unique sense of style, which often included eccentric hats and sunglasses, as well as his habit of dancing and gyrating at the piano while playing. Throughout his career, Monk received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to jazz music. In 1964, he was featured on the cover of Time magazine, becoming only the second jazz musician to receive this honor (after Louis Armstrong). He was also awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993, in recognition of his lasting impact on the world of music. Thelonious Monk's legacy continues to influence musicians across genres to this day. His innovative approach to jazz piano and composition has inspired countless artists and continues to be celebrated by jazz aficionados worldwide. Monk's music remains a testament to his unique talent and enduring influence on the world of music.