Hi,
Can instrumental music be political? Without words how can it have a message? How is it even possible to change the world with instrumental music?
These questions all flow from another question. Does music have meaning?
One of the most common descriptions of John Coltrane's music is revolutionary. Oh really? Revolutionary! Not left leaning or hope for change but revolutionary?
All you have to do is listen.
John Coltrane - A Love Supreme
Revolutionary!
Thanks to mama hearts obama for recommending John Coltrane.
more...
We were discussing John Coltrane and pianist McCoy Tyner who played with Coltrane for years.
mama hearts obama- I don't know about anyone else, but this sure changed my world.
John Coltrane - A Love Supreme
hairylarry - I love John Coltrane. I particularly enjoy his albums with McCoy Tyner on piano. I found that after repeated listenings the piano parts became my favorites.
The Flying Hungarians used to do "A Love Supreme" back when we had horns.
mama hearts obama - One of my favorite piano players ever.
hairylarry - And his work with Trane is some of his best. Of course he was inspired by John Coltrane. Who wouldn't be?
In the fifties radio wasn't all compartmentalized like it is now. John Coltrane had a radio hit on "My Favorite Things". Genius but still accessible.
John Coltrane Quartet - My Favorite Things
In "Sometimes A Great Notion" Ken Kesey captures what is revolutionary about John Coltrane's music.
And I put on what? Of course. John Coltrane. "Africa Brass" I recall no malice aforethought in this choice, but who can say? Does one ever play Coltrane for the uninitiated without subconsciously hoping for the worst. Anyway, if such was my wish my subconscious must have been greatly pleased, for after a few minutes of that tenor sax ripping away at the privates, Hank reacted according to schedule. "What kind of crap is that?" (Anger, frustration, great gritting of teeth; all the classic responses) "What kind of godawful manure pile is that?
John Coltrane Quartet - Song of the Underground Railroad
John Coltrane - Giant Steps
Giant Steps is animated with the score.
Here's a recording made in 1961 in Baden-Baden Germany.
John Coltrane - Impressions
"Impressions" features
John Coltrane - soprano sax, tenor sax
Eric Dolphy - flute, alto sax
McCoy Tyner - piano
Reggie Workman - bass
Elvin Jones - drums
So here I've made my case for instrumental music changing the world by providing one example. Whether you agree or disagree please discuss this in the comments.
Thanks,
Hairy Larry