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Kenny Dorham - Blue Bossa

"Blue Bossa" is a jazz standard composed by Kenny Dorham, a prominent American jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader. Here are some interesting facts about Kenny Dorham and his composition "Blue Bossa":

  1. Kenny Dorham's Career: Kenny Dorham was born on August 30, 1924, in Fairfield, Texas, and he became an influential figure in the world of jazz. He was known for his lyrical and inventive trumpet playing, as well as his skills as a composer and bandleader.

  2. Composition of "Blue Bossa": Kenny Dorham composed "Blue Bossa" in the early 1960s. It is a fusion of jazz with bossa nova, a Brazilian music style that was gaining popularity in the United States at the time. The song's catchy melody and unique blend of jazz and Brazilian rhythms contributed to its enduring appeal.

  3. Recording on "Page One": "Blue Bossa" was first recorded by Kenny Dorham on his 1963 album titled "Una Mas," which was released under the Blue Note label. This album also featured Joe Henderson on tenor saxophone, Herbie Hancock on piano, Butch Warren on bass, and Tony Williams on drums.

  4. Jazz Standard Status: "Blue Bossa" quickly became a jazz standard, and it has been covered by numerous jazz musicians and ensembles over the years. Its popularity has endured, making it a commonly performed and recorded composition in the jazz repertoire.

  5. Brazilian Influence: The bossa nova influence in "Blue Bossa" is evident in its use of Brazilian rhythms and harmonies. This fusion of jazz and bossa nova was part of a broader trend in the 1960s known as "Brazilian jazz" or "Latin jazz," which incorporated elements of Brazilian and Latin American music into the jazz idiom.

  6. Versatility: "Blue Bossa" is a versatile composition that can be played in various jazz settings, from small groups to big bands. Its accessibility and attractive melody make it a favorite choice for jazz musicians looking to engage audiences with a mix of styles and cultures.

  7. Joe Henderson's Interpretation: Tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson, who played on the original recording of "Blue Bossa," also recorded his own version of the tune on his 1993 album "So Near, So Far (Musings for Miles)." Henderson's interpretation of the song showcases his improvisational skills and deep understanding of the bossa nova style.

"Blue Bossa" remains a beloved piece in the jazz canon, celebrated for its fusion of jazz and Brazilian music elements, its catchy melody, and its enduring popularity among jazz musicians and audiences alike.

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