Dizzy Gillespie and Sonny Stitt - Groovin' High in Belgium

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Groovin' High (Gillespie) live in Belgium, 1974 with Dizzy Gillespie and Sonny Stitt.
Sonny Stitt was an influential jazz saxophonist who made significant contributions to the development of the bebop and hard bop styles. Born Edward Boatner Jr. on February 2, 1924, in Boston, Massachusetts, he was an extremely prolific recording artist and toured extensively throughout his career.
Here are some reasons why Sonny Stitt is considered important:
Technique and Skill
Stitt was an exceptionally skilled musician and improviser. His technical prowess on the saxophone set a high standard for jazz musicians, and his ability to execute complex phrases effortlessly made him a highly respected figure among his peers.
Versatility
Stitt was proficient in playing both alto and tenor saxophones and often switched between them throughout his career. His style, particularly on alto, bore similarities to Charlie Parker's, but he also developed his own unique voice on the tenor saxophone.
Influence on Bebop and Hard Bop
Stitt was an important figure in the bebop movement, which fundamentally changed the way jazz was played and understood. His performances and recordings serve as a masterclass in these styles. In the 1950s, he also delved into the hard bop subgenre, playing with other jazz greats like Sonny Rollins and Dizzy Gillespie.
Extensive Discography
Sonny Stitt had an incredibly prolific recording career. His discography includes well over 100 albums as a leader and numerous others as a sideman. He recorded with some of the greats of jazz, including Bud Powell, Stan Getz, Dizzy Gillespie, and Gene Ammons, among many others.
Mentorship and Collaboration
Stitt played with and influenced many young musicians, acting as a bridge between the early bebop pioneers and the next generation of jazz artists. He was open to collaboration and played with a variety of musicians across styles and generations.
Resilience and Longevity
Despite personal challenges, including battles with substance abuse, Stitt maintained a long and productive career, continuing to perform and record almost up until his death in 1982.
In summary, Sonny Stitt's importance lies in his exceptional skill, adaptability, prolific output, and significant influence on the genres of bebop and hard bop. He remains an enduring figure in the history of jazz music.
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@cheesesteak59 Жыл бұрын

My first Sonny Stitt album was called Burnin' . I have no idea what made me buy it probably close to 40 years ago but it really caught my attention.

@lewisnelken1966 Жыл бұрын

what a FANTASTIC recording. They are both absolutely smashing the beat. And the Four quote at the end and the way they played a jazz standard like such professionals with all the ornamentation and appreciation of the simple form. Truly wonderful thing. Made my morning and I'm going to have a great Sunday now. Jazz music contains all the meaning of life.