7 Memorable Jazz Music Moments in Films

The storied legacy of jazz is inextricably intertwined with the world of cinema, as its resonant tones and spontaneous essence infuse enchanting moments onto the silver screen. From vivacious swing melodies broadcast on Swing Jazz radio to alluring, silky harmonies, timeless movies have forever captured some of jazz's most unforgettable musical instances. Jazz not only provides a soundtrack but also elevates the plot and sentiment of a film, cementing its integral role in the cinematic journey. The enduring compositions and expressions of jazz icons still enthral spectators and provoke reminiscences of former periods of jazz.

 7 Memorable Jazz Music Moments in Films

 

 

1. The Benny Goodman Story, 1956

 

The biographical film vividly portrays the extraordinary journey of Benny Goodman, acclaimed as the King of Swing, and highlights his chart-topping repertoire, such as Sing, Sing, Sing. The remarkable moment is when Goodman and his band captivate the audience at Carnegie Hall with a rousing and electrifying performance, capturing the very essence of classic Swing Jazz. The movie conveys audience members to the illustrious era of swing and imparts understanding into the voyage of the musician.

 

2. The Glenn Miller Story, 1954

 

Featuring the renowned bandleader Glenn Miller in the lead role, this cinematic masterpiece is essential viewing for devotees of jazz and swing. The motion picture highlights Miller's acclaimed compositions, including In the Mood and Moonlight Serenade. A truly unforgettable scene captures Miller's fervent rendition of Tuxedo Junction on centre stage, evoking his profound affinity for the music and his band's distinctive melodic style.

 

3. Anatomy of a Murder, 1959

 

Anatomy of a Murder, though primarily a courtroom drama, showcases the unforgettable jazz composition by none other than Duke Ellington. The music flawlessly complements the film's gripping and riveting scenes, infused with fleeting moments of velvety smooth jazz that intricately enhance the narrative. A remarkable highlight is when Ellington graces the screen, captivatingly playing the piano alongside James Stewart's character.

 

4. Cabin in the Sky, 1943

 

The film boasts the exceptional skills of esteemed jazz virtuosos, including Ethel Waters and Louis Armstrong. Its musical arrangements feature beloved melodies such as Taking a Chance on Love and Happiness Is a Thing Called Joe. Notably, Armstrong's performance of Ain't Misbehavin captures his unparalleled artistry and charm, elevating the film into an enduring tribute to the genre of jazz.

 

Interested in listening to these jazz songs? Then plug into any top Swing Jazz Music station.

 

 

5. High Society, 1956

 

The musical comedy, High Society, boasts the stellar presence of jazz luminaries such as Louis Armstrong and Bing Crosby. A moment that stands out in the film is Armstrong's rendition of Now You Has Jazz alongside Crosby, highlighting their undeniable chemistry and charismatic showmanship. The movie pulsates with spirited jazz tunes and captivating duets that epitomize the very essence of this beloved genre.

 

6. Paris Blues, 1961

 

The film Paris Blues follows the journey of two American jazz virtuosos, portrayed by Paul Newman and Sidney Poitier, as they navigate the complexities of life and love amidst the vibrant backdrop of Paris. The alluring ambience of smoky clubs sets the stage for captivating jazz performances, including a soulful interpretation of Summertime by Poitier's character. Accompanied by an enchanting jazz score, the film effortlessly transports viewers to the heart of the bustling Parisian jazz scene.

 

7. The Cotton Club, 1984

 

Set during the iconic Harlem Renaissance, The Cotton Club exudes the vibrant spirit of the era with its depiction of the lively jazz scene. Legendary artists such as Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway take center stage, with a particularly memorable moment being Calloway's energetic rendition of Minnie the Moocher. This film transports audiences back in time to experience the renowned Swing Jazz radio and all its legendary music and atmosphere.

 

Conclusion

 

Experience the captivating and enduring allure of jazz through its powerful presence on the big screen, as iconic artists electrify with their performances and smooth, soulful tunes enhance dramatic moments. Whether indulging in Swing Jazz radio or reliving classic jazz scenes, these yesteryear music moments offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the rich history of this beloved genre. Jazz continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying its unique spirit and eternal impact within the world of film. to catch up with these songs, you can tune into Swing Street Radio.

Top Jazz Songs That Scored Memorable Movie Moments

In the golden era of Hollywood, jazz became the standard musical soundtrack to the drama, romance, and intrigue of life. The timeless appeal of jazz songs from bygone eras keeps audiences enthralled with their captivating melodies. In this exploration of the history of film, we explore the intriguing relationship that exists between beloved films and jazz standards. Take a trip through the silver screen, where the melancholic tones of the saxophone and the upbeat rhythms of swing jazz carry us back to bygone eras. Top jazz music radio stations in USA are waiting for those who want to relive the magic.

 Summertime by George Gershwin in Porgy and Bess in 1959

George Gershwin's enticing Summertime from Porgy and Bess has featured in many films, but its great performance in the 1959 version stands out the most. The lullaby's soft tune pours life into moments of both love and adversity, giving the story more emotional depth. Gershwin's classic composition, which is still a cinematic treasure, brilliantly encapsulates the essence of the Jazz age, serves as a constant reminder of the storytelling power of jazz. 

You can listen to these Swing songs on jazz music radio station in USA. 

Autumn Leaves by Nat King Cole in Johnny Guitar in 1954 

Nat King Cole's sultry voice and heartfelt performance of Autumn Leaves set a melancholic tone to the popular Western classic Johnny Guitar. The film's untamed landscapes contrast with Cole's silky vocals to produce a singular cinematic experience. The melancholic tones of the song accentuate the character's complexities, creating a lasting impression on the mood of the movie. Cole's contribution to the soundtrack is one of the best examples showing how jazz is able to blend in with a variety of film genres. 

Round Midnight by Thelonious Monk in Round Midnight in 1986 

Round Midnight by Bertrand Tavernier explores the Parisian jazz scene in the 1950s and pays homage to the jazz community. The film's title track and emotional centre is Round Midnight, a masterful composition by Thelonious Monk. The film's themes of passion, sacrifice, and the transient nature of artistic brilliance are all reflected in the moody yet entrancing atmosphere created by the melancholic notes of the piano combined with Monk's distinctive phrasing. 

You can catch up with these Swing songs on any top swing jazz radio. 

Cheek to Cheek by Fred Astaire in Top Hat  in 1935 

The grace and elegance of the golden age of Hollywood musicals can be perfectly captured by Fred Astaire's mesmerising rendition of Irving Berlin's Cheek to Cheek in the beloved movie Top Hat. The song's elegant melody and Astaire's flawless dancing skills take listeners to a glamorous and romantic setting. Cheek to Cheek is still a classic example of how jazz, in all its manifestations, can enhance the emotional and visual impact of a work of filmmaking. 

Conclusion 

The enchantment of these ageless compositions endures as we consider the permanent influence of jazz music from the past on cinematic narrative. The enduring legacy of iconic films paired with timeless jazz compositions serves as a constant reminder of the emotional depth and cultural richness that jazz brings to the big screen. Don't forget to check out swing jazz radio and jazz music radio stations in USA to further lose yourself in thealluring world of jazz. These stations offer access to the mesmerising sounds that have influenced film culture for many years. You can check out Swing Street Radio, for the top jazz hits. 

Top Swing Music Songs For A Perfect Date Night

Hans Christian Andersen, a Danish and English author had rightly remarked, “Where words fail, music speaks.” Indeed, music does have a very close connection with romance. When you cannot express your feelings for someone through words, use a song instead. This is exactly what you are going to find about in the following lines as with the most loved list of swing music in USA tracks you can turn a simple date night into a crystallized moment, for a lifetime. With some good food, a few words to exchange, your heartbeats making all the noise, and the radio playing these big band and swing music songs, conjure up a perfect date night. 

1. “Beyond the Sea”

Robbie Williams has brought many melodious songs that might still ring in your ears and echo in your hearts. This track of his is a very popular love song and will simply sound sweet and romantic with a complete essence of the big band swing feeling. Play this song, pull your partner close, and swing around the moment the lyrics, “And straight to her arms, I’ll go sailing” pops up. 

2. “L-O-V-E”

A silent night, this classic song playing on the radio and you both sitting close. Can there be a sweeter moment together? Well, Natalie Cole’s voice will give you the thrills and your hearts will skip a beat each when the song innocently declares it all about love. Though this song broke all charts towards the end of the swing genre, it still succeeds to impress you and give that jazzy feeling. 

3. “Cheek to Cheek”

Though written by Irving Berlin for a film, the song came to the limelight owing to the voice of the singer almost twenty years later after it was penned down. Frank Sinatra caught the ears and sang this classic swing song with his mellifluous voice, not missing a beat and yet sticking to the very essence. You can just sit and hum the song or swing to it together.

4.  “Bei Mir Bist Du Schön”

If you want to profess your love, there is no better way to do it than by dedicating this to the one you are in love with. When translated from German, the title phrase of this Janis Siegel song means “to me, you are beautiful” and yes, beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. As the radio plays this romantic swing classic, its dynamic tempo will form an exciting moment where you can express your feelings and let your beloved swing to its tune too. 

5. “All of Me”

Though the song particularly expresses heartbreak, you really cannot miss the romantic and jazzy strains that it casts. Louis Armstrong captures your attention with this soulful track with the typical jazz elements like scatting and ad-libbing. The lyrics of the song are heart-wrenching and depict well the condition of a lover after the partner leaves him and goes away. 

6. “The Way You Look Tonight”

Quintessentially a love song, this swing music song is fabulous. The recent rendition of the classic song by Adam Levine of Maroon 5, oozes love, romance, and beauty. Simply keep your lover on the toes with the song playing in the background and romance spreading all around.

 

Conclusion 

 With the best and your favorite swing music station in USA, you are sure to get a taste of quality music that a bygone era has left as a legacy. Simply turn on your radio, listen to the big band and swing music songs or simply request one for your dear one! Enjoy each moment with every beat of these songs and let love bloom.

Top 5 Swing Music Songs To Play At Your Wedding Reception

 Swing music is the perfect way to make people hit the dance floor and groove to the swing beats and rhythms. Moreover, when it is the occasion of your wedding reception, you cannot help but swing to these lovely numbers with your better half and crystallize the moments. So, take a look at these top 5 numbers besides keeping handy a collection of big band and swing music, so that you can play them at your wedding reception and spend the moments in merry, love and laughter.

Here are those top 5 favorite swing tracks that will leave you in a trance with their beautiful musical arrangements and meaningful lyrics.

 The top 5 swing songs 

1. Cowboy Casanova

Sung by Carrie Underwood in 2009, ‘Cowboy Casanova’ received a huge and positive response and lots of critical acclaim after its release. This is a country swing song that captures your mind and leaves you in a happy state. Its meaningful lyrics are surely something to look forward to on your D-day.

 He’s a good time cowboy Casanova

Leaning up against the record machine

He looks like a cool drink of water

But he’s candy-coated misery

 

2. Good Time 

Alan Jackson’s ‘Good Time’, released in 2008, is a country swing song as well. The lovely music and thoughtful lyrics make it a perfect track to be played on a romantic date or your D-day.

 I’ve been workin’ all week

And I’m tired and I don’t wanna sleep

I wanna have fun

Time for a good time 

3. Honky Tonk Badonkadonk

 Trace Adkins released this song in 2005 and it became an instant hit. Beating the other songs on the charts, this country song bagged a place in the hearts of all. Why do you need to play this song at your wedding reception? Why, because of the music and the lyrics!

 At that honky tonk badonkadonk

Keepin’ perfect rhythm

Make ya wanna swing along

Got it goin’ on

Like Donkey Kong

 

4. Baby Likes to Rock It

 The Tractors released this song in 1994 and this country swing song turned out to be a chartbuster. With the lyrics that will readily stay glued to your mind, this song will just be the icing on the cake on your wedding reception day.

 She got the boogie woogie woogie spread all over the place

She’s got it stacked to the ceilin’–got it stickin’ in your face

Ya know my baby likes to rock it like a boogie woogie choo choo train 

5. Sugar

 Adam Levine of Maroon 5 almost had our hearts stolen with this lovely Pop Rock number with a wide touch of swing music in the year 2014. Levine’s drool-worthy vocals simply took this song another notch higher and when you let this song play at your wedding reception, you will only feel like holding your partner closer and swing all the way into the end of eternity.

 I’m right here, ’cause I need

Little love, a little sympathy

Yeah, you show me good loving

Make it alright

Need a little sweetness in my life

Your sugar

  

Winding up:

 Listening to these songs will leave you mesmerized and you will pine for some more swing tracks. The endless list of ballroom swing music can be listened to on America’s favorite swing music radio channel, Swing Street Radio, the official ballroommusic radio station USA. Stay tuned to it to soothe your ears, calm your nerves and enjoy every tune of yesteryear’s swing music and lyrics. 

The Greatest Ever Jazz Guitarists of All Time

 

In jazz history, it has always been the trumpeters and saxophonists who always got the major share of the spotlight. One of the reasons why guitarists did not get their due, especially in the early years of jazz, is because acoustic guitars lacked the strength to stand out in an ensemble like the woodwind brass instruments. The introduction of electric amplification changed the fortune of jazz guitarists and their percussive rhythm sections could now be heard over the sound of the ensemble. If you want to listen to the best guitarists on a jazzmusic radio station in USA, be prepared to hear the music of these below-listed names.

Django Reinhardt

A Belgian-born Romani-French jazz guitarist and composer, Django Reinhardt is one of the most significant names that emerged from European jazz music. A prodigious talent, he played the guitar using only his thumb and two middle fingers after the third and fourth fingers on his left hand were severely damaged in a caravan fire at just the age of 18. Django Reinhardt fronted a Paris-based band, Quintette du Hot Club de France, along with violinist Stéphane Grapelli. This small quintet only featured string instruments like the guitar and double bass, which produced a much softer sound allowing Django to showcase his virtuosic acoustic soloing skills. Despite playing the instrument with just two fingers, he had the technical expertise to combine precision and speed with an unbelievable manual dexterity. He redefined the role of jazz guitarists with his rhythmic sections as well as skillful soloing.

Charlie Christian

Charlie Christian was one of the first guitar players to embrace the electric guitar when it was introduced in the mid-1930s. Before that, guitarists usually featured as rhythm players in a swing and jazz band. But Christian rose to fame performing with Benny Goodman’s Orchestra where he played the guitar as a solo instrument. His soloing style is often described as horn-like due to his penchant for using flowing, melodic single-note lines. During his tenure with Goodman from 1939-41, his remarkable playing and improvisational skills helped bring the guitar out of the rhythm section and into the forefront. Charlie Christian also played a significant role in the development of bebop, doing a series of recordings at the Minton's Playhouse with the likes of Jerry Jerome, Kenny Clarke, Joe Guy, and more. He died at the age of just 25, in 1942, suffering from tuberculosis.

Wes Montgomery

Hailed as one of the greatest jazz guitarists of all time, Wes Montgomery was not a trained musician. What set him apart from the rest of the crowd was his unusual style of plucking the guitar strings with the side of his thumbs and his distinctive use of octaves. He was highly influenced by Charlie Christian and was proficient in playing single-note lines exactly like a horn player. But his soloing had a more harmonic style thanks to his use of parallel octaves and block chords. Wes Montgomery recorded extensively with his brothers – vibraphonist and pianist Buddy and double bassist Monk – and he primarily played hard bop and soul jazz. His style of guitar playing also influenced smooth jazz and jazz fusion. He died, aged 45, due to a heart attack. Wes Montgomery is undoubtedly one of the most influential guitar players in jazz history.

Jim Hall

Jim Hall was an extraordinary jazz musician; he could play the guitar, double bass, and piano, and was also a skilled composer and arranger. He started learning the guitar at the age of 10 and was profoundly influenced by Charlie Christian recordings. He started his professional career in Los Angeles playing with Chico Hamilton's quintet. He then joined the trio band, Jimmy Giuffre Three. In 1957, he recorded his first solo album. From the late 1950s to mid-1960s, Hall collaborated with some of the biggest and most prolific names in the world of jazz. He was working with Ben Webster, Ella Fitzgerald, Sonny Rollins, Lee Konitz, Bill Evans, Quincy Jones, Oliver Nelson, Gary McFarland, Paul Desmond, Gerry Mulligan, John Lewis, Sonny Stitt, and many other big names. His duet albums with double bassist Ron Carter and his 1975 album with Paul Desmond and Chet Baker were some of his most successful. Jim Hall cemented his place as one of the world’s best jazz guitarists thanks to his eclectic collaborations.

Conclusion

As you listen to any jazz music radio station in USA, you will surely come across music by these four notable musicians and top jazz guitarists of all time.

Top Female Vocalists of the Jazz & Swing Era

 The musical genre of jazz has always been dominated by male artists, since the beginning. From trumpeters to pianists to drummers, men have always been at the forefront of most jazz ensembles. But as you listen to any swingjazz radio, you will also discover many female vocalists who ruled the audience’s hearts and musical charts with their exceptional singing talent and striking charisma. The female jazz vocalists of the golden era were equally matched in popularity and skill with their male counterparts. In this blog, we take a look at some of the best female singers in jazz history.

Ella Fitzgerald

Ella Jane Fitzgerald, born in 1917 in Newport News, Virginia, is undoubtedly the greatest of all time when it comes to female jazz singers. She was lovingly called by many names – First Lady of Song, Queen of Jazz, and Lady Ella. Known for her flawless diction, pure phrasing, perfect intonation, and extraordinary improvisational ability, Ella was a master of scat singing. She was also skilled in delivering emotional and moving ballads, merging her technique with sensitivity. Ella made her musical debut at the Apollo Theater in New York in 1934, where she won the first prize in the Amateur Nights competition. Next, she started singing with Chick Webb’s band and very soon became one of the most played artists on the radio. With a career spanning over six decades, Ella won 14 Grammy Awards, and was awarded the National Medal of Arts, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Sarah Vaughan

Sarah Vaughan, nicknamed ‘Sassy’ and ‘The Divine One’ by her fans, was born in 1924 in Newark, New Jersey. She had a full-bodied voice with the most remarkable range and impeccable control over her voice quality and intonation. In the fall of 1942, Sara entered the Amateur Night contest in Apollo Theater and won. The very same year, at the tender age of 18, she opened for Ella Fitzgerald. A year later, she was touring with Earl Hines and Billy Eckstine. She launched her solo singing career in 1945. With her wondrous voice and accomplished vocal skills, Sara was as comfortable in scat singing as she was in crooning romantic ballads. She won 4 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Billie Holiday

Born as Eleanora Fagan in 1915 in Philadelphia, and nicknamed ‘Lady Day’, Billie Holiday is a popular name in swing jazz radio playlists. Known for her melodious and soulful voice with a distinctive lilting quality, she had a unique ability to manipulate the phrasing and tempo of any song. Her vocal ability had a pioneering influence on many jazz artists who came after her. What made Billie Holiday stand out from others was her ability to connect with the audience like no other. Her voice had a deeply personal timbre that made everything she sang emotionally poignant. She was one of the first female jazz singers to receive success and admiration from the public at large. Holiday won 4 Grammy Awards and was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame.

Dinah Washington

Born as Ruth Lee Jones in 1924 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Dinah Washington was a skilled jazz vocalist who was also proficient in other musical styles including blues, R&B, and traditional pop music. With an enchanting voice and clear and precise diction, she had a very neat and tidy delivery style that won the hearts of her listeners. At the age of 15, she began her career singing in Chicago jazz clubs and later joined Lionel Hampton's band. In 1946, she started performing as a solo artist. She won a Grammy Award and was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Conclusion

The above list is just a tiny drop in an ocean. There are many more female jazz singers worth mentioning like Nina Simone, Peggy Lee, and many more. Just switch on to swing jazz radio and you can enjoy their enthralling voices.

Jazz Instruments: 5 Most Popular Instruments Used in Jazz Music

 The magic of jazz music is such that it continues to rule the hearts even today, decades after it first rose to fame. From the big band sounds to the rhythmic beats of swing music to the distinct style of bebop, jazz has certainly gone through its fair share of transformations. But when you listen to a jazzmusic radio station in USA, there are some musical instruments that you can clearly identify in every song. In this blog, we take a look at some of the most widely used musical instruments used in jazz compositions.

Trumpet

The legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong made trumpets very popular. It is a brass instrument with a vibrating mouthpiece to play the music. It has three valves to control pitch changes. Trumpets are an essential part of any jazz band that produces a bold and bright sound. It has been associated with jazz since the very early beginnings, when it was played by Buddy Bolden and King Oliver. The jazz is a heavily featured instrument in some of the greatest jazz albums of all times. From classical era to contemporary times, the trumpet continues to be an essential part of jazz music.   

Saxophone

If there is one defining jazz musical instrument, it has to be the saxophone. Throughout history, and through many different styles, the saxophone has been a constant in the jazz musical genre. The saxophone is technically a woodwind instrument, but it is made out of brass. It is a monophonic instrument, which means that it can only play one note at a time. There are four main types of the sax: tenor, alto, soprano, and baritone. The tenor sax and alto sax are most popular and widely used by jazz musicians. But the soprano sax and baritone sax is also equally well-known. Thanks to the diversity of a saxophone, the instrument produces different tones and notes. From Charlie Parker to Lester Young, the saxophone has been played by some of the greatest jazz musicians. 

Trombone

Trombones have been used in jazz music ever since the beginning of the genre. They started out as a background instrument in the early jazz era, but really gained fame as a solo instrument during the swing era of jazz in the 1930s. Made out of brass, a trombone is a sliding pipe that goes in and out of the front end of the instrument. The various musical notes are created based on the placement of the side pipe. During the peak of big band sounds and swing era, trombones were a must-have instrument in the jazz bands of that time. They added a flair of drama and theatrical to every jazz song.

Clarinet

The clarinet may not be as dramatic as a saxophone or a trombone, but it played a huge role in the emergence of swing music during the early years. The clarinet is a woodwind instrument and notes are produced when the stem on the mouthpiece vibrates. As a musical instrument, the jazz and the saxophone are very similar in their playing technique. This is why most of the popular sax players could also play the clarinet with ease. The clarinet has been a part of jazz music since the early jazz era and was particularly popular during the swing period. In modern times, this instrument is not used as much. But the notes of a clarinet adds a definite warmth to any jazz composition.

Piano

With 88 keys to experiment with, pianos are among the most versatile musical instruments. In jazz songs, pianos can be used to play various notes ranging from high to low. They are typically used in the rhythm section of a song, allowing the pianist to play the chords in a recurring tone or to completely improvise the harmony. Pianos can be used both as a solo instrument and as part of the ensemble. The versatility of a piano makes it an essential instrument in any jazz band.

Conclusion

The next time you tune into a jazz music radio station in USA, pay close attention to the instruments being used in a jazz song. And you will definitely come across the one we discussed above.

Exciting Reasons Why You Should Listen to Electro-Swing Music

Swing and jazz easily appeal to Gen X and millennials, but when it comes to Gen Z, they crave a modern twist to this classic genre. If you are a Gen Zer and think an extra ‘spark’ would make swing music more enthralling, you may give electro-swing music a try. Yes, you read that right! Electro-swing music is really a thing and captivated the hearts of music listeners of the new generation. And as you can already guess, the enchantingly mixed genre is born out of the fusion of electronic music with vintage swingmusic in the USA and also worldwide. 

 

Now if you think electro-swing is a new invention, you probably have been living under the rock. It has been around since the 1990s and entertaining people from all age groups. So, are you curious to know why we like this nostalgia-infused futuristic music? Well, in this blog we tell the reasons that make electro-swing a hit among music lovers. Are you ready to dive in with us? 

 

Best of both genres – With this mixed genre, you get to taste the best of both music styles. Little bits from hip hop, modern jazz, and vintage swing make this style so unique and appealing to all. Added to that, using modern music technologies allows us to mix and match the elements to bring in an entertaining creation in alignment with the current music trends. As far as the artists are concerned, they also enjoy greater creative freedom while producing electro-swing music. And you being in the audience can find a source of solace and entertainment in this creative expression of art.

 

Syncs in well with other styles – We know it’s a different feel to enjoy classic swing, let’s say on jazz musicradio station in the USA, but in this age of DJing, mixing your music well is one of the sure-shot ways of impressing the crowd. And electro-swing being an accommodating genre can fit well with other genres like a glitch, rap, Latin house, and funk. If it’s well planned and well executed, electro-swing music can be made to work well with all types of music styles. Thus, today, artists can try out a range of combinations of techniques and sounds to create music that can’t be tied down by established conventions. 

 

Vast appeal and approachable – Do you consider dubstep or electro-trash a noise to your ears? Oh, you like them but your friends don’t? Try playing some electro-swing and jazz up your party! There’s hardly anyone who can despise the vintage-inspired modern electronic dance music. No matter what age or background, everyone likes the mixed vibes of this genre. Once the familiar rhythm of the swing makes you comfortable, the electronic beats will totally get you in the mood of rocking the party. 

 

Makes you dance non-stop – The combined energy of swing and electronic music can make anyone get up and rule the dance floor, showing their moves. As you all would know, swing music was created for encouraging the audience to dance in the first place. Now, mixing different genres in electro-swing takes this dance energy to another level. We mean it when we say you won’t be able to stop yourself from shaking a leg to this music. From shuffling and quickstep to swing, club dancing, and rock and roll – feel free to get your groove with any of the dance styles you like. 

 

Conclusion – We beg to differ with people who say swing is dead because it’s far from being forgotten. Not only is classic swing popular on the radio yesteryear programs, but its modernized form, electro-swing has now got youngsters hooked. In this connection, let us tell you that Swing Street Radio plays non-stop classic jazz tracks and entertains music lovers. So, if you desire some authentic swing apart from EDM, don’t forget to tune into the radio station. 

Top 5 Swing Songs for Ballroom Wedding Dance

 During the golden era of swing, the craze of ballroom dance engulfed people’s minds. For those who are not aware, ballroom dance is a form of partnered dance performed by a couple, in a close dance position. While salsa, waltz, and tango are some of the popular forms of this dance style, the swing is the root and one of the traditional styles of ballroom dance. There were times when people would cherish and dance to the rhythms of swing music only on ballroom music radio station in the USA. Although we have come a long way from the twentieth century, ballroom dance to classic swing music is still popular in our times. If your wedding is around the corner, you can prepare a list of favorite swing songs and dance your heart out at your ballroom wedding. So, do you want to know the top tracks to add to your list? Keep reading and find our recommendations. 

 

Sing, Sing, Sing, (Benny Goodman) – The track was originally composed and written by Louis Prima, but Benny Goodman took its popularity to another level with his rendition. With Benny Goodman on clarinet, Gene Krupa on drums, Chris Griffin on trumpets, and Hymie Schertzer on saxophone, the original recording lasted for only three minutes. But the recording of this song at Carnegie Hall performance lasted for more than 12 minutes. You can play any version you like on your special day! All in all, get ready to have a gala time dancing to this tune. 

 

Begin the Beguine (Artie Shaw) – Even though beguine is a dance form originating in the Caribbean, the term is inextricably linked with the legacy of swing music of the USA. Arranged by Jerry Gray, Begin the Beguine was initially performed in ballrooms by The Artie Shaw Orchestra. Having noticed the overwhelming response from the audience, Artie Shaw took the right decision of recording it for RCA Bluebird. Right from the solos to the ensembles and arrangement, all mesh perfectly well in this musical arrangement. 

 

The Hawaiian Wedding Song (Andrew Sisters) – Do you often dedicate this romantic track to your partner by sending a song request to the programmes on the big band radio? There is no better romantic song than this one for your ballroom-themed wedding dance. Soothing vocals, meaningful lyrics, and goosebump-inducing tune can make everyone’s heart skip a beat. And if you are looking for a dance number, you can also go for Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy by the same band and enjoy energetic dance moves with your partner. The choice is yours! 

 

Take the A Train (Duke Ellington) – If you asked anyone to name a jazz standard, they would utter the name of this song without any hesitations. Such is the popularity of this song! Written and composed by the very talented Billy Strayhorn, this tune became the signature tune of Duke Ellington’s band. Joya Sherrill and Ray Nance were the two female vocalists who often performed with the Ellington band and enhanced the appeal of this jazz track. So, why don’t you play this song and create the right atmosphere at your wedding? We bet you’ll have a great time, dancing away to swing rhythms. 

 

In the Mood (Glenn Miller) – Want to set the right mood for your ballroom wedding? Originally recorded by Joe Garland, Miller reworked the music arrangement and gave the overall composition a new twist. This track promises you to get in the mood for the wedding, romance, and much more… Although the track was originally composed by Wingy Manone, it found tremendous success and recognition with Glenn Miller’s rendition. In fact, the recording was so phenomenal that it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. 

 

Final Thoughts - So, here you have the top swing songs for ballroom dance. Hope you are impressed with our list. Also, if you want your daily dose of swing music, you can turn on the radio yesteryear that brings you a bouquet of old classic swing songs.

5 Greatest Swing Jazz Pianists You Should Listen to Today!

 What is swing music without its unpredictable and exciting rhythmic beats? Being one of the most used instruments in big band arrangements, the role of the piano in enlivening swing music is incredible, to say the least. No matter which big band you talk about, the pianists added a great punch to the entire rhythmic section of the band and took the overall performance to the next level. You can never be a loyal fan of swing music unless you have learned about the musicians who played a pivotal role in giving this genre the exposure and popularity it rightfully commanded. In this blog, we talk about the swing pianists that enriched the old-time radiorecording in the USA and swept Americans off their feet in the early twentieth century. 

Fats Waller – Having studied piano from the virtuoso jazz pianist James P. Johnson, Fat Waller mastered this instrument from a very early age. Apart from his greatest hits like “Honeysuckle Rose”, “Squeeze Me”, and “Ain’t Misbehavin”, Waller earned astounding recognition for his work on piano solos under his contract with Victor Records. He was not only a gifted pianist, but Fats Waller gained prominence for his songwriting abilities as well. Even though he was phenomenally popular for being a comedic entertainer, none could look away from his musical expertise.

 

Count Basie – Although he preferred playing drums during his childhood, Count Basie turned his attention towards piano at the age of 15. As an ardent swing jazz fan, you must already know that Basie was one of the notable big band leaders in the twentieth century. Not only was he a fantastic music arranger, but Basie had earned an unparalleled feat for having led the group on piano for nearly 50 years.

 

James P. Johnson – Not many of you might have heard about him, but Johnson was one of the early pioneers in stride piano playing style. He was so great at his art that he heavily influenced musicians like Art Tatum, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie. It was Johnson who transformed the course of modern jazz piano in the early twentieth century. In fact, “Carolina Shout”, one of his very famous piano compositions, is known to be the first recorded piano solo in the history of jazz.

 

Nat King Cole – Do you swoon every time the hit tracks of Nat King Cole are played on the swingmusic radio? After all, who would not fall the smooth silky voice of this legend? Apart from his amazing vocals, Cole was also famous for his stupendous piano playing skills. Moreover, the credit must be given to Nat King Cole for having inspired the best jazz piano trio format in the swing era. Even to this day, the music critics would agree that the rhythmic and harmonic advancements in his piano style helped him stand out from the contemporaries of that period.

 

Duke Ellington – The list would be far from complete if we did not talk about the king of jazz. None can deny that Duke Ellington was one of the popular jazz composers the swing era had witnessed. Along with that, jazz musicians and fans also regarded him as the finest pianist of his time. Having mastered the Harem style of piano stride playing, Ellington introduced his originality and inventiveness as a pianist, and laid the foundation of his avant-garde musical works.

 

Final Words – So, here is the list of the top 5 renowned pianists of the swing era. Have you not listened to their compositions yet? Well, it’s never too late to discover some fantastic music, you see. Tune into the big band music station in the USA and enjoy the greatest hits by the jazz legends of the twentieth century. Hope you have a great time with non-stop swing music entertainment.