Happy (almost) Fourth of July!

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich musical heritage of America.

These are my 5 favorite vintage jazz albums about America to add to your playlist:

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 (1958)
By Sonny Rollins
This album is a direct response to the social and political climate of the time, with Rollins using his music to comment on American life and freedom.

𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥 (1968)
By Gary McFarland
A jazz masterpiece that reimagines patriotic songs with a modern twist. It’s both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.

𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 (1956)
By Duke Ellington
Capturing one of the most famous live performances in jazz history, this album showcases Ellington’s powerful and patriotic compositions, highlighting the essence of American jazz.

𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐡 𝐕𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐆𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐰𝐢𝐧 (1958)
By Sarah Vaughan
Her interpretations of Gershwin’s classics are nothing short of magical. Her vocal prowess and emotional depth bring the great American songbook to life, showcasing the timeless beauty of these compositions.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐫𝐬 (1962)
By Dave Brubeck, Iola Brubeck, Louis Armstrong & more
This album addresses themes of civil rights and American diplomacy, using jazz as a vehicle to discuss important social issues of the time.

These albums not only celebrate the essence of America but also showcase the incredible talent and creativity of our jazz legends.