What makes Havin' Fun by Joanne Brackeen notable?

Havin' Fun received critical acclaim for its adventurous arrangements and showcased Brackeen's unique approach to jazz composition. It has been cited as an important record within the jazz fusion genre, influencing subsequent female jazz musicians and contributing to the growing recognition of women in jazz during the 1980s. Released in 1985, Havin' Fun is Joanne Brackeen's third studio album, following her acclaimed work on 1979's Now Was the Time. At this point in her career, she had established herself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene, known for her virtuosic piano skills and innovative compositions. This album marked a continuation of her exploration into blending traditional jazz with contemporary influences.

Who is Havin' Fun for?

Havin' Fun works well if you're into spirited improvisation for joy, sophisticated harmonies for relaxation and playful melodies for social gatherings.

How many songs are on Havin' Fun?

Havin' Fun has 8 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Havin' Fun

Joanne Brackeen · 1985

43 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of jazz fusion that showcases intricate melodies and dynamic improvisations across a diverse range of styles.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Thinking of You — This opening track establishes the album's playful tone, featuring intricate piano lines that weave seamlessly with rhythmic bass and drums.
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I've Got the World on a String — Brackeen's interpretation of this classic standard highlights her ability to infuse fresh energy while maintaining respect for jazz traditions.
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Manha de Carnaval — This rendition transforms the bossa nova classic into a lush, expansive exploration of harmony and rhythm, showcasing Brackeen's improvisational prowess.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

spirited improvisation for joy
sophisticated harmonies for relaxation
playful melodies for social gatherings
inviting warmth for afternoon listening

Maybe skip if you

need for fast-paced tracks
prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1985, Havin' Fun is Joanne Brackeen's third studio album, following her acclaimed work on 1979's Now Was the Time. At this point in her career, she had established herself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene, known for her virtuosic piano skills and innovative compositions. This album marked a continuation of her exploration into blending traditional jazz with contemporary influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· McCoy Tyner

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Everything She Wants

The bridge shifts from a reflective tone to an energetic call-and-response section between instruments, creating a lively dialogue.

This structural change heightens the emotional impact, contrasting introspective moments with bursts of exuberance that characterize Brackeen's playful style.

Tracklist

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

1 Thinking of You 4:58
2 I've Got the World on a String 5:28
3 Emily 6:48
4 Just One of Those Things 4:01
5 This Is Always 5:11
6 Everything She Wants 4:15
7 Manha de Carnaval 7:17
8 Day by Day 5:31

What to play next

Listen next

Fi-Fi Goes to Heaven

1987

Go back to

Special Identity

1981

Full Joanne Brackeen discography Artists like Joanne Brackeen

jazz fusion

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata