Jazz is more than a musical genre. It is a movement, an escape, and a form of rebellion—one whose mystery you can uncover through the fascinating musicians that shaped its history.

Jazz doesn’t easily fit into any category owing to its diverse roots, incredible flexibility, and passion for improvisation. It is, therefore, ironic, yet somehow understandable, that this mysterious genre, so different even from other Black-inspired music, should be so well-loved by millions of people across the globe. The recent Oscar-winning film La La Land was no less than a love letter to jazz. Emmy-nominated producer, comedian, and actor, Jeff Garlin, recently announced that Los Angeles was on the verge of a major jazz rebirth, and celebrities like Billy Crystal, Bill Maher, and Tommy Chong are all self-confessed “hardcore jazz buffs.”

Perhaps the secret to jazz’s eternal appeal is its democratic nature. Modern jazz defies its Dixieland roots and is inherently irreverent and versatile. This musical genre embraces individuality and daringness and always has room for a new cat willing to celebrate their individuality and defy convention. Jazz also has a fascinating history and an important role in battling discrimination. Icons like Louis Armstrong, known across the globe as one of the most uplifting and talented musicians, found a form of “escape” in jazz. Music has always been a key road to freedom from segregation, but in the case of jazz, it created an entire cultural ecosystem that enabled black musicians to make a living doing the thing they most loved.

Jazz History for Beginners shares the magic of the world’s most courageous, groundbreaking genres, demystifying the myriad of styles, tonal colors, and rhythms that define jazz.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.