Stanley Clarke: Master of the Bass, Innovator of Jazz Fusion
Introduction:
A small group of artists have changed the genre of jazz fusion by pushing the limits of their instruments. Among these musical pioneers is the renowned bassist, composer, and bandleader Stanley Clarke. With his unmatched technical ability, avant-garde playing approach, and ground-breaking compositions, Clarke has made an enduring impression on the jazz community and beyond. We go…
Always out there, Jean-Luc Ponty is getting up there, too, as the jazz violinist celebrates the big 8-oh today.
Born Sept. 29, 1942, in France, the classically trained Ponty moved to America in the early 1970s at the urging of Frank Zappa, one of his many collaborators over the years.
In addition to dozens of solo albums, the Cosmic Messenger Ponty has swum many an Enigmatic Ocean, working with Chick Corea, the Mahavishnu Orchestra, Al DiMeola, Stanley Clarke, Béla Fleck, Sam Bush, Yes’ Jon Anderson and many others.
It’s been a life Upon the Wings of Music; always seeking, always adventurous, always uniquely Ponty.
The tour dates section of his website remains disappointingly empty. Perhaps as live music continues its comeback, the eclectic, electric violinist might do the same.
Marcus Miller: Redefining Modern Jazz with His Musical Mastery
Introduction:
Marcus Miller, the visionary bassist, composer, and producer, has etched his name in the annals of modern jazz. His unparalleled talent, innovative compositions, and infectious groove have made him a celebrated figure in the genre. With a career spanning decades, Miller has not only pushed the boundaries of jazz but has also made significant contributions to funk, R&B, and fusion.…
“Mike doesn’t just play the piano. He eats it.”—Chick Corea. Back in 1973, minds were blown when Mike’s piano solo ripped through the title track of David Bowie’s iconic album, ALADIN SANE. Mike’s “passionate pyrotechnics” captured attention as much as any “guitar god miracle,” yet “with a mastery of theory that perked ears and lowered turned-up noses of many a classical purist.” For over three decades since, he has continued to support Bowie--one of rock music’s most original auteurs, appearing on some of Bowie’s best-known albums: DIAMOND DOGS, YOUNG AMERICANS (with John Lennon) and OUTSIDE (with Brian Eno). Bowie said of Mike: “He is exceptional…there are very, very few musicians, let alone pianists, who naturally understand the movement and free thinking necessary to hurl themselves into experimental or traditional areas of music, sometimes, ironically, at the same time. Mike does this with such enthusiasm that it makes my heart glad just to be in the same room with him.”
As a composer, Garson has written over 4300 pieces of music, with over half as classical works, and his music has been used in major films (SEVEN, STIGMATA, etc.). He is also considered to be a leading interpreter of George Gershwin and György Ligeti. By age 13, Garson was studying at the Julliard School of Music and later studied under keyboard legends Bill Evans and Herbie Hancock. Mike’s career has also intersected with Stanley Clarke, Chick Corea, Stewart Copeland, David Essex, Free Flight, Stan Getz, Freddie Hubbard, Elvin Jones, Nine Inch Nails, Martha Reeves, Seal, Smashing Pumpkins and Gwen Stefani. Currently Mike directs the Celebrate Bowie tours.
I’m very grateful for the times I’ve been able to work with Mike—always enlightening, educational, and edifying. In 2009 I had a radio show on NPR. Mike was a guest (we were promoting a symphony concert), and I filled the hour with as much of his resume as possible. Listen here: https://johnnyjblairsingeratlarge.bandcamp.com/album/billtown-bus-stop-radio-hour-with-mike-garson ...Meanwhile, thank you Mike for your years of making music that makes a difference.