Swing It!

"Swing It!" is the final studio album from jazz legend Benny Golson, released posthumously on July 26, 2024, under VintageVibe Records. This collection of 16 tracks spans a rich hour and nineteen minutes, showcasing Golson's mastery of hard bop, bebop, and cool jazz. Born on January 25, 1929, in Philadelphia, PA, Golson was a tenor saxophonist, composer, and arranger whose influence on jazz is immeasurable. His passing in September 2024 at the age of 95 left a void in the jazz world, but his legacy lives on through albums like this one.

The album features a mix of original compositions and well-known standards, all arranged with Golson's signature sophistication and melodic brilliance. Tracks like "I Remember Clifford" and "Whispering-Groovin' High" highlight his ability to blend esoteric rhythms with impeccable swing, while "April in Paris" and "Moten Swing" offer a nod to the timeless appeal of jazz classics. Golson's compositions, such as "Mad About the Boy" and "My Blues House," showcase his knack for creating catchy melodies and glamorous harmonies.

"Swing It!" is a testament to Benny Golson's enduring contribution to jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this album offers a compelling journey through the genres he helped shape. With his unique style and unparalleled talent, Golson's final album is a fitting tribute to a jazz legend.

Benny Golson, born in Philadelphia in 1929, was a titan of the jazz world, renowned for his mastery of the tenor saxophone and his prolific compositions. His career spanned over six decades, during which he became a pivotal figure in the bebop and hard bop genres. Golson first gained recognition through his work with legendary big bands led by Lionel Hampton and Dizzy Gillespie, where his talents as a composer and arranger shone brightly. In 1959, he co-founded The Jazztet with trumpeter Art Farmer, a group that became synonymous with sophisticated, hard-bop jazz. Throughout his career, Golson's distinctive sound and innovative arrangements earned him the title of a 1996 NEA Jazz Master. Beyond his performing career, Golson's arrangements for film and television in the late 1960s and 1970s showcased his versatility and creativity. His legacy endures through his timeless compositions and his influence on generations of jazz musicians.

Swing It!

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