Is Jazz Dead?

by Stuart Nicholson

Is Jazz Dead? examines the state of jazz in America at the turn of the twenty-first century. Musicians themselves are returning to New Orleans, Swing, and Bebop styles, while the work of the '60s avant-garde and even '70s and '80s jazz-rock is roundly ignored. Meanwhile, global jazz musicians are creating new and exciting music that is just starting to be heard in the United States, offering a viable alternative to the rampant conservatism here. Stuart Nicholson's thought-provoking book offers an analysis of the American scene, how it came to be so stagnant, and what it can do to create a new level of creativity. This book is bound to be controversial among jazz purists and musicians; it will undoubtedly generate discussion about how jazz should grow now that it has become a recognized part of American musical history. Is Jazz Dead? dares to ask the question on all jazz fan's Can jazz survive as a living medium? And, if so, how?

Genres: Music, Jazz, History

286 pages, Paperback

First published September 8, 2005

Reviews

[Jorgon · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent review, even though slightly dated (a new edition is needed!). Great and unflinching critique of Marsalis and the Young Lions, and excellent chapters on future jazz/jazztronica, various homegrown varieties of glocal jazz and specifically the Nordic tone--all among my favourite musics. No, jazz is not dead at all, and even in the USA it has revived somewhat since this was published. But it has gone through yet more transformations in the last decade, of course: which is the way it should be.

[dv · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good perspective (even if not exactly up to date since it’s from 2005) on the health of jazz music. The part which criticize the conservatism of American jazz (and especially targets Wynton Marsalis) is pretty good, as well as that on the European jazz. All in all, a comprehensive orientation guide to the contemporary world of jazz, helpful to go beyond the ‘60s and understand a music which is definitely worldwide - rather than just American.

[Troy · Rating 5 out of 5]

In short, the author does a great job of picking apart just where jazz is going and how bad it really could get with no subsidized support amidst the art/commerce dichotomy that jazz seems to incur. Really enjoyed the thought process and the summation of what happens now.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

fascinating and tragic

[Henrik Lindstad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read on the development of both traditions and business if not the least the current status of the music.

[Walton · Rating 2 out of 5]

My review: http://studiowmuyumba.blogspot.com/20...