What makes Cue for Saxophone by Billy Strayhorn notable?

This album is significant for its innovative arrangements and harmonic complexity, contributing to the evolution of jazz during the late 1950s. It received critical acclaim, particularly for tracks such as 'Gone With the Wind', which highlighted Strayhorn’s unique approach to melody and orchestration, solidifying his influence on future jazz musicians. By the time 'Cue for Saxophone' was released in 1959, Billy Strayhorn had established himself as a prominent composer and arranger within Duke Ellington's orchestra. This album represents one of his rare opportunities to lead a session under his own name, following years of collaboration with Ellington on iconic pieces like 'Take the 'A' Train'.

How many songs are on Cue for Saxophone?

Cue for Saxophone has 7 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Cue for Saxophone

Billy Strayhorn · 1959

40 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A lush, evocative blend of orchestral textures and sophisticated melodies that showcase Strayhorn's compositional brilliance.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Gone With the Wind — This track stands out due to its sweeping orchestral arrangement that elevates the emotional depth of the original composition while showcasing Strayhorn's masterful use of harmony.
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Watch Your Cue — With its brisk tempo and intricate saxophone lines, this piece exemplifies Strayhorn's ability to blend playful motifs with sophisticated jazz idioms.
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Cue's Blue Now — Opening the album, this track sets a reflective mood with its contemplative melodies and rich harmonic structures, establishing the thematic foundation for what follows.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Cue's Blue Now 10:07
2 Gone With the Wind 4:18
3 Cherry 5:54
4 Watch Your Cue 3:10
5 You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me 7:23
6 When I Dream of You 3:33
7 Rose Room 6:02

What to play next

Listen next

The Peaceful Side of Jazz

1963

Go back to

Billy Strayhorn Trio

1951

Full Billy Strayhorn discography Artists like Billy Strayhorn

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata