Did you catch what Wynton Marsalis had to say about music and lyrics? Words matter to him, and I am hopeful that his message catches on with audiences everywhere. I’m delighted that world-famous artists like him speak out about the power of music. You can read his interviews here and here. In this article, Wynton claims that some rap and hip-hop songs that feature negative lyrics, can be ‘more damaging than a statue of Robert E. Lee.’
Wynton’s message resonates with me. Like him, after all of these years, I’m frustrated that I still meet so many young people who are listening to popular music with lyrics that wrongly reinforce negative stereotypes. There are so many positive alternatives. I want everyone to feel welcome and included, valued and respected at the events that I do. If you want to learn more about the power of music with children, you can check out my book Powerful Playlists, too.
Jazz music makes a great addition to many events. Jazz can warm you up or cool you down. You can’t beat Wynton’s song called “Buggy Ride” to bring energy to a dance party. Slower songs like “When It’s Sleepytime Down South” can add a moment of quiet sophistication that you can to enjoy with your guests. My wife has been enjoying Wynton’s duet with his father, Ellis Marsalis, entitled “Jitterbug Waltz” which is featured on his webpage, filmed during the Vitoria Jazz Festival in 2001.
Kris Koch Music would be happy to provide jazz music by Wynton Marsalis as well as other jazz artists at your next event. If you are a die-hard jazz fan, or are just discovering this wonderful genre, I would be thrilled to put together a playlist that fits your unique events. Kudos, again, to Wynton Marsalis for a long career of wonderful music and inspiring messages.
Here are a few of my favorites from Wynton Marsalis to listen to on Spotify.