Famous jazz musicians. Players who have graced the history of jazz.
The music genre known as “jazz” boasts a history of well over 100 years.
Absorbing the spirit of each era, it has evolved by embracing innovative techniques and experimenting with various approaches, continuously exerting a major influence on other genres.
From rock and heavy metal to club music, there are many artists who incorporate the essence of jazz to craft their own distinctive sounds.
In this article, we introduce the great musicians who have left a precious legacy in the history of jazz—artists whose talent and contributions to the genre have earned them the honorable title of “Jazz Giants.”
If you’re thinking of getting into jazz, be sure to check it out!
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Famous jazz musicians: Players who shaped the history of jazz (31–40)
When You’re SmilingBillie Holiday
She is a female jazz singer who, like Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald, went down in history as one of the celebrated “big three.” Her blues-based singing style excelled in spontaneous improvisational phrasing and was hailed as the ultimate in jazz vocals.
A legend who continues to captivate countless jazz fans.
BirdlandJoe Zawinul
After making his name as a jazz pianist, Joe Zawinul adopted the electric piano and profoundly influenced the development of the genre later known as fusion.
With his own band, Weather Report, he stood at the forefront of the scene alongside figures such as saxophonist Wayne Shorter and bassist Jaco Pastorius.
He also played a crucial role in supporting younger talent, notably discovering the Cameroonian virtuoso bassist Richard Bona.
DESAFINADOKenny G
Kenny G is a leading American soprano saxophonist in smooth jazz and fusion, and he also skillfully plays alto sax, tenor sax, and wind synthesizer.
In 1999, he was listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling jazz artist.
On the classic ‘Desafinado,’ Kenny delivers a wonderful, fresh masterful performance in a smooth jazz style.
CandyLee Morgan
This is Candy by Lee Morgan, a trumpet player from Philadelphia.
His trumpet has a cool, stylish tone that’s really captivating.
He debuted at a young age on Blue Note, and his talent was evident to everyone.
However, at 33 he was shot by his mistress, and Lee Morgan met a tragic end.
If he hadn’t been shot then, he surely would have kept blowing that slick trumpet of his.
How High The MoonStéphane Grappelli
Stephane Grappelli, born in 1908 in Paris, France, was a leading jazz violinist.
Though he had a tough start, playing violin on the streets from the age of 12 to help support his family, he possessed exceptional talent.
He was an artist of supreme technique and sensitivity who did not limit himself to jazz, collaborating with giants from the classical world such as the master violinist Yehudi Menuhin and the preeminent contemporary cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
Famous Jazz Musicians: Players Who Shaped Jazz History (41–50)
You’d Be So Nice to Come Home ToArt Pepper
A gem that vividly captures the soul of West Coast jazz.
Its warm melody conjures the image of reuniting with a loved one on your way home, making it a heart-soothing masterpiece.
Art Pepper’s saxophone—both delicate and powerful—brilliantly conveys the universal longing for love and companionship.
Featured on the 1957 album “Art Pepper Meets The Rhythm Section,” this piece is recommended not only for jazz enthusiasts but for anyone seeking music with real depth.
It’s a perfect track for a cozy winter night by the fireplace.
Bossa Nova U.S.A.Dave Brubeck
“Bossa Nova U.
S.
A.” is a composition by Dave Brubeck, and it’s a wonderfully soothing piece where the piano by Dave, drums by Joe Morello, and alto sax by Paul Desmond weave a harmonious blend of sound.
Dave Brubeck, born in 1920 and hailing from California, is a leading pianist of West Coast jazz.