VARIATIONS ON KING PORTER STOMP

"King Porter Stomp," written by Jelly Roll Morton in 1905, is a cornerstone of early jazz, igniting a new sound that drew from the lively pulse of ragtime and the depth of blues. It captures Morton’s bold creativity, fusing infectious rhythms with vibrant harmonies that would ripple through the jazz scene for decades. With its propulsive drive and unmistakable swagger, the piece became a fixture in the energetic landscape of New Orleans, reverberating far beyond the city. More than just a tune, it signaled a turning point, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become swing music. The composition's intricate patterns and loose improvisational spirit reflected the growing freedom within jazz, breaking the mold of its predecessors. "King Porter Stomp" stands as a defining moment in the genre's history, immortalizing Morton as one of its most inventive architects.

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Timestamps:
0:00 Familarization
0:42 Introduction
0:55 Andrew Oliver, Andy Schumm, and Hal Smtih
3:13 Frank LiVolsi
6:00 Wynton Marsalis and Marcus Roberts
9:07 Paolo Alderighi
12:17 Adam Swanson
14:58 Drew Nugent
17:26 Benny Goodman, Dick Hyman, and others
20:13 Carl Sonny Leyland

More about Jelly Roll Morton:
Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton (October 20, 1890 – July 10, 1941) was an American jazz pianist, bandleader, and composer, widely recognized as a crucial figure in the development of jazz music. Born in New Orleans, Morton was a pioneer who claimed to have invented jazz, and his work fused elements of blues, ragtime, and French quadrilles, creating a unique style that laid the groundwork for modern jazz.

Morton's early career saw him performing in the brothels of New Orleans’ Storyville district, where his lively piano playing earned him a reputation as a brilliant entertainer. His compositions, such as "King Porter Stomp" and "Jelly Roll Blues," became jazz standards, embodying his complex and syncopated rhythms that would define early jazz.

By the 1920s, Morton moved to Chicago and recorded with the Red Hot Peppers, producing some of the most influential recordings in jazz history. His intricate arrangements and innovative use of breaks and stop-time patterns distinguished his music, demonstrating his deep understanding of jazz's evolving structure.

In the late 1930s, Morton experienced a resurgence in interest in his music. His final recordings from 1939-1940, captured by the Library of Congress, include solo piano performances and reminiscences of his early days in New Orleans. These sessions offer a raw and intimate glimpse into Morton’s life and artistry, highlighting his continued creativity despite declining health and financial struggles.

Although Morton passed away in 1941, his legacy endures through these recordings, which remain a testament to his pivotal role in the history of jazz. Today, Jelly Roll Morton is celebrated as one of the genre's founding fathers, whose work continues to inspire and influence musicians worldwide.

Derived from Wikipedia and AllMusic -

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