Count Basie

United States

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Sound in a sentence: "A buoyant swing propelled by crisp piano lines and punctuated brass accents creates an irresistible urge to move while maintaining a laid-back sophistication."

Count Basie reshaped the landscape of jazz, particularly through his role in popularizing the swing era. His ability to blend intricate musicianship with an infectious rhythm brought a new energy to dance floors and listening rooms alike, making jazz more accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. This democratization of jazz not only highlighted the genre's potential for mass appeal but also set the stage for future generations of musicians to explore their own interpretations within the framework he established. Basie's innovative use of rhythm and space in his arrangements created a signature sound that emphasized the power of simplicity and groove. His band became a masterclass in tight ensemble playing, where each musician's personality shined while still contributing to a cohesive whole. This approach not only elevated the role of the big band but also influenced countless ensembles that followed, fostering a collaborative spirit that remains essential in jazz today. Thematically, Basie’s music often revolves around joy, celebration, and the everyday experiences of life, reflecting both sophistication and a sense of playfulness. His compositions tend to balance irony with sincerity, allowing listeners to feel both uplifted and introspective. The tone is conversational rather than overly dramatic, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages dancing or deep listening alike.

Count Basie

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About

Discography

Albums ()

The Savory Collection 1935–1940

The Original American Decca Recordings

Mostly Blues...and Some Others

Me and You

88 Basie Street

Fancy Pants

Farmer's Market Barbecue

Kansas City 6

Warm Breeze

Kansas City 7

Kansas City Shout

Kansas City 8: Get Together

On the Road

Yessir, That's My Baby

Count Basie Meets Oscar Peterson – The Timekeepers

Satch and Josh...Again

Night Rider

Basie Jam: Montreux '77

Kansas City 5

Montreux '77

Prime Time

The Gifted Ones

Basie Jam 2

Basie Jam 3

I Told You So

Basie & Zoot

For the Second Time

Basie Big Band

For the First Time

Satch and Josh

Basie Jam

Loose Walk

Have a Nice Day

Afrique

High Voltage

Live in Japan '78

Live at Manchester Craftsmen's Guild

Standing Ovation

Count Basie Jam Session at the Montreux Jazz Festival 1975

Basie on the Beatles

Basie in Sweden

Live at the Sands

Basic Basie

Basie Straight Ahead

The Board of Directors Annual Report

The Board of Directors

Half a Sixpence

The Happiest Millionaire

Hollywood...Basie's Way

Basie's in the Bag

Basie Swingin' Voices Singin'

Basie's Beatle Bag

Broadway Basie's...Way

Basie Picks the Winners

Basie Land

This Time by Basie!

Li'l Ol' Groovemaker...Basie!

More Hits of the 50's and 60's

Easi'n it

The Legend

Count Basie and the Kansas City 7

On My Way and Shoutin' Again!

Back with Basie

Basie at Birdland

Count Basie/Sarah Vaughan

The Count Basie Story

String Along with Basie

Kansas City Suite

Dance Along with Basie

Not Now, I'll Tell You When

Chairman of the Board

Hall of Fame

Breakfast Dance and Barbecue

One More Time

The Atomic Mr. Basie