Miles Davis

Miles Davis

• Leading figure in several jazz styles
• Innovative force in the evolution of jazz
• Aloof, defiant personality
• Signature trumpet sound

Early Years

• Born in 1926, East Saint Louis
• Played with Billy Eckstine in 1944
• Moved to NYC, enrolled in Julliard
• Sought out Charlier Parker 
• Played with Bird from 1947-1949

Cool Era

• Formed a nonet with Thornhill members 1949
• Birth of the Cool recorded in the same year
• Members became the founders of Cool Jazz
• Definitive association with Miles's persona

1950s

• Formed classic quintet with Philly Jo Jones, 
• John Coltrane, Red Garland, Paul Chambers
• Develops mature playing style - fragmented melodies
• More space for the rhythm section
• Significant touring and recording period

Late 50s

• New collaborations with Gil Evans
• "Miles Ahead", "Porgy and Bess"
• "Sketches of Spain"
• Used third stream orchestra
• Move to modality instead of major/minor

Modal Style

• Based on scales - fewer chords
• More freedom for soloists
• "Kind of Blue" 1959 landmark recording

Jazz/Rock Fusion

• Davis is seminal force
• New young rhythm section
• Tony Williams, drums; Herbie Hancock, piano
• Ron Carter, bass
• Landmark recordings: In a Silent Way, Bitches Brew

Jazz Pop

• Short foray into pop style
• "You're Under Arrest" 1985
• Davis signature style still evident
• Continued experimentation without 
• sacrificing individuality

Legacy

• Unique in his ability to sense new directions
• Assimilate attributes, popularize new styles
• Pioneered a personal, introspective playing style
• Open solo style left room for rhythm section interaction