Jazz has been around for over a century and the most influential jazz musicians have contributed largely to the changing soundscape of this genre. From funk, acid-jazz, and fusion, to polyrhythm, improvisation, and syncopation, the artists on this list are truly musical masters who enjoyed long term careers in the industry. As a mix between European classical music and African folk songs, jazz has long been considered one of the most rhythmic genres, due to its predominance of instrumental riffs and heartfelt melodies.
For music buffs, jazz legends attain an almost god-like status, given their talent, passion, and perfected artistry. For those of you interested in the sulky sounds, check out our previous article on the 10 most legendary blues songs, where you might find a cross-genre singer or two. However, if you’re curious to know whose magic swept the crowds off their feet, here’s our compilation of the most influential jazz musicians ever.
6. Duke Ellington
One of Jazz’s biggest legends, Duke Ellington is a pianist, composer, and infamous band leader that has inspired generations of modern day musicians. Furthermore, he’s also one of the most versatile artists on the spectrum, as he used his orchestra to interpret gospel, blues, classical, and pop songs, in addition to his jazz repertoire. Owner of 13 Grammys, a Presidential Medal of Freedom, and a Pulitzer Prize, Ellington is not one to be overlooked.
5. Louis Armstrong
Another pioneer of the jazz genre is Louis Armstrong, also known as “Satchmo” and “Pops”. Originating from New Orleans, he became famous as a trumpet player, installing the trumpet solo as a significant contribution to jazz melodies. And while his instrumental skills inspired other iconic figures like Miles Davis, Armstrong gained a large fan base as a singer who showcased his raspy voice perfectly. In fact, Frank Sinatra named him as one of his favourite artists back in the day.
4. Billie Holiday
Of course, no recount of the most influential jazz musicians is complete without mentioning “Lady Day”. Not particularly gifted at playing any instruments, Billie Holiday quickly became the go-to voice for musicians seeking an unconventional singer for their jazz compositions. Her ability to mimic different instrumental sounds, in addition to her manipulation and deconstruction of phrasing and tempo, made her incredibly unique and earned her several Grammy Awards.
3. Thelonious Monk
Not only does this jazz master have one of the coolest possible names in the entire music industry, but his attitude as a performer easily classifies as on-spot. A pianist and composer, the Monk had the ability to put his audience in a trance by alternating the rhythmic sections in his songs, improvising, and painting a soundscape full of rich and uneven colours. You could go so far as to call him the Picasso of jazz musicians.
2. John Coltrane
Perhaps the most mathematical and yet classical of the jazz musicians, John Coltrane’s compositions are characterized by hard bob rhythms, guided by the sweet sound of his saxophone. Known for stepping out of the box by introducing extended improvised solos into his songs, he never failed to write his music in support of his entire band as well. His excellence was awarded with a Grammy for the “Best Jazz Solo Performance”, as well as the Lifetime Achievement award.
1. Charles Mingus
It’s not uncommon that an artistic genius can be a little rough around the edges when it comes to his character, and Charles Mingus was no different. While his compositions were extremely brilliant, sporting a revolutionary and upbeat spirit in the forms of gospel, hard bop, free jazz, and classical music, he was also a hot head. Swinging between clinical depression and anger issues, Mingus once punched his trombonist during a raging outburst, thereby breaking his tooth. Nonetheless, his impeccable work as a composer, bass player, piano player, and band leader made him one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time.
