Keep Loving

Dive into the rich, melodic world of Hampton Hawes with "Keep Loving," a masterful collection of jazz classics released in 2020. This album, featuring 19 tracks, is a testament to Hawes' enduring legacy and his profound impact on the jazz genre. With a blend of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz, "Keep Loving" showcases Hawes' virtuosic piano playing and his ability to breathe new life into timeless standards.

The album opens with "These Foolish Things (Remind Me of You)" and closes with "All the Things You Are," taking you on a journey through beloved jazz tunes like "Autumn in New York," "Stella by Starlight," and "I Got Rhythm." Each track is a testament to Hawes' musical prowess, with his distinctive style shining through in every note. The album's duration of 1 hour and 24 minutes ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the rich, layered sounds of Hawes' piano, accompanied by a full rhythm section that includes drums, bass, and guitar.

Hampton Hawes, a pioneer in the jazz world, passed away in 1977, but his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences. "Keep Loving" is a beautiful tribute to his artistry, featuring a variety of repertoire that highlights his versatility and depth as a musician. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hampton Hawes or a newcomer to his music, this album is a treasure trove of jazz excellence that you won't want to miss. The album was released on the Keep Loving Muzik label.

Hampton Hawes was a pioneering American jazz pianist, celebrated for his distinctive blend of bebop, hard bop, and cool jazz. Born in Los Angeles in 1928, Hawes began his musical journey at a young age, playing with legendary musicians like Charlie Parker, Dexter Gordon, and Charles Mingus. His career took off in the 1950s, with a series of acclaimed albums on Contemporary Records, showcasing his unique interpretations and powerful touch. Hawes' music is characterized by its bluesy bebop style, with a strong and urgent rhythm that breathes life into every note. Beyond his musical achievements, Hawes' life story is one of resilience and redemption. His memoir, "Raise Up Off Me," offers a candid look at his struggles with addiction and his eventual pardon by President Kennedy in 1963. Hawes' legacy endures as a defining figure of West Coast jazz, leaving behind a rich discography that continues to inspire jazz enthusiasts worldwide.