On Jazz A Personal Journey

Few musical genres inspire the passionate devotion of jazz. Its mystique goes far beyond the melodies and rhythms, with its key players and singers discussed by aficionados with a respect that borders on reverence. Some books on jazz offer little more than theory or dry facts, thereby relinquishing the ‘essence’ of the music. This book is different. One of the most influential and internationally known writers on the subject describes, through vivid personal contacts, reminiscences and zesty anecdotes, his life in jazz as a player, broadcaster and observer. Alyn Shipton recalls friendships with legendary musicians, while revealing fresh discoveries about such luminaries as Fats Waller, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Abbey Lincoln and Geri Allen. On Jazz powerfully evokes the atmosphere of clubs and dancehalls, and takes us behind the scenes and up onto the stage, so that this electrifying world is unforgettably spotlighted as never before.

• A warm, affectionate and anecdotally rich narrative of the fascinating world of jazz and its musicians by the presenter of BBC Radio 3’s ‘Jazz Record Requests’
• Full of new insight into the musicians’ characters, likes and motivations, including detailed portraits of Sonny Rollins, Ornette Coleman, Abbey Lincoln and members of Duke Ellington’s band
• Interviews and conversations with many influential musicians give the reader a wonderfully readable entre to the complex development of jazz as an art form