"The Dave Brubeck Quartet" and their iconic piece "Take Five" have left a lasting impact on jazz music and popular culture. Here are some interesting facts about the quartet and their famous composition:
Unusual Time Signature: "Take Five" is famous for its distinctive time signature. Unlike most jazz songs, which are typically in 4/4 time, "Take Five" is in 5/4 time. This unique time signature contributes to its distinctive and catchy rhythm.
Written by Paul Desmond: The composition of "Take Five" is credited to Paul Desmond, the quartet's saxophonist. Desmond's creative use of the 5/4 time signature gave the piece its name. He wanted to experiment with different time signatures and felt that this unusual meter would create a fresh and captivating sound.
Album: "Take Five" was first recorded in 1959 and released on the album "Time Out." This album became one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time. It's known for its fusion of jazz and classical elements, with each track featuring a different time signature.
Chart Success: "Take Five" became a surprise hit on the Billboard charts. In 1961, it reached #25 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the first jazz single to sell a million copies.
Signature Tune: "Take Five" became the signature tune of the Dave Brubeck Quartet, and it's often the piece that people associate most with the group. Its catchy melody and unconventional rhythm made it a favorite among jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.
Time Out: "Take Five" is just one of the intriguing compositions on the "Time Out" album. Other tracks on the album explore different time signatures, such as 9/8 in "Blue Rondo à la Turk" and 3/4 in "Strange Meadow Lark."
Cultural Impact: "Take Five" has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years, further cementing its place in popular culture. It has also been covered by countless artists in various genres.
Legacy: The Dave Brubeck Quartet's "Take Five" remains a significant contribution to the world of jazz music. It is often regarded as one of the quintessential jazz pieces of the 20th century and continues to be celebrated and admired by musicians and jazz enthusiasts worldwide.