Blues By Basie

Dive into the rich, swinging sounds of the jazz era with "Blues By Basie," a captivating collection of classic tracks by the legendary Count Basie. Released in 2007 by Legacy Recordings, this album is a testament to Basie's enduring legacy as a pioneer of big band and swing music. Featuring collaborations with esteemed musicians like Buck Clayton and Don Byas, "Blues By Basie" offers a seamless blend of timeless melodies and infectious rhythms that will keep you tapping your feet and humming along.

The album kicks off with the lively "Sugar Blues," a 78rpm version that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Other standout tracks include the sultry "Royal Garden Blues," the soulful "How Long Blues," and the iconic "St. Louis Blues," each showcasing Basie's mastery of the piano and his band's impeccable musicianship. The live recording of "Lose The Blackout Blues" adds a dynamic energy, while the 78rpm versions of tracks like "Bugle Blues" and "Basie Blues" provide a nostalgic touch, transporting you back to the golden age of jazz.

With a duration of just over 37 minutes, "Blues By Basie" is a concise yet powerful journey through the world of swing music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Count Basie or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to delight and inspire. So, crank up the volume and let the smooth, swinging sounds of "Blues By Basie" fill the air.

Count Basie, born William James Basie, was a titan of jazz, renowned for his mastery of the piano and his innovative leadership of the Count Basie Orchestra. Hailing from Red Bank, New Jersey, Basie's journey began in the vibrant world of vaudeville before he formed his own big band in 1935, which would go on to define the swing era. His distinctive minimalist piano style and rhythmic genius made him a standout performer, while his band's use of split tenor saxophones and emphasis on the rhythm section set new standards in big band jazz. Basie's influence extended far and wide, collaborating with legends like John Hammond and performing at iconic venues such as the Apollo Theatre. With hits like "One O'Clock Jump" and "Blue Skies," Count Basie's legacy endures as one of the greatest bandleaders in the history of jazz, inspiring generations of musicians with his unique blend of blues and swing.