Smooth jazz

Smooth jazz is generally described as a subset of jazz that combinines instruments (and, at times, improvisation) traditionally associated with its parent genre and stylistic influences drawn from, among other sources, funk, pop and R&B. Since the late 1980s, it has become highly successful as a radio format; one can tune in to a "smooth jazz"-themed station nearly everywhere in the United States. Despite its apparently large following, there has been something of a backlash against the genre, mostly from jazz purists who consider its recordings bland and overly commercial.

Origins

Smooth jazz as it is known today first emerged in the mid- to late-1970s, pioneered by such artists as Grover Washington Jr., Spyro Gyra and Pieces of a Dream, stemming from a number of extant styles including jazz fusion. Unlike that form, however, smooth jazz tends to emphasize melody and deemphasize improvisation.

Related Topics:
1970s - Grover Washington Jr. - Spyro Gyra - Pieces of a Dream - Jazz fusion

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The genre's roots can be traced as far back as late 1960s, when, teamed with famed record producer Creed Taylor, guitarist Wes Montgomery made three records (1967's A Day in the Life and Down Here on the Ground and 1968's Road Song) consisting of instrumental versions of familiar pop songs such as "Eleanor Rigby", "

Related Topics:
1960s - Creed Taylor - Guitarist - Wes Montgomery - Pop - Eleanor Rigby - I Say a Little Prayer for You" - Scarborough Fair

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