Oscar Peterson Plays the George Gershwin Songbook cover

Oscar Peterson Plays the George Gershwin Songbook

Oscar Peterson · 1959

71 min · 24 tracks · blues · funk · bebop

A vibrant jazz interpretation that breathes new life into Gershwin's timeless melodies with Peterson's virtuosic piano style.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant piano interpretations of classics
  • wave-like pacing with emotional highs
  • for afternoon relaxation
  • recurring themes enhance listening journey

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer longer, cohesive albums
  • seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album contributed to jazz's acceptance as an art form and showcased Peterson's talent.
Themes
American Songbook revival· bebop energy
Career context
By 1959, Oscar Peterson was already an established figure in jazz, celebrated for his technical prowess and expressive playing. This album followed his critically acclaimed work 'Night Train' and showcased his ability to interpret the American Songbook, solidifying his reputation as a master of jazz standards.
Stylistic neighbors
Bill Evans· Herbie Hancock· McCoy Tyner
If this clicks, go next to
Oscar Peterson Plays the Duke Ellington Song book — Continues the theme of interpreting classic songbooks with vibrant arrangements.
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Now He Sings, Now He Sobs by Chick Corea — Combines virtuosic piano with complex rhythms, echoing Gershwin's spirit through modern jazz interpretations.
Maiden Voyage by Herbie Hancock — Features a vibrant blend of jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing innovative harmonies and arrangements.

Tracklist

New here? Start with "It Ain't Necessarily So".

  • 1 It Ain't Necessarily So Start here 2:48
  • 2 The Man I Love 3:09
  • 3 Love Walked In 2:49
  • 4 I Was Doing All Right 2:50
  • 5 A Foggy Day 2:55
  • 6 Oh, Lady Be Good 3:02
  • 7 Love Is Here to Stay 2:59
  • 8 They All Laughed 2:31
  • 9 Let's Call the Whole Thing Off 2:20
  • 10 Summertime 2:58
  • 11 Nice Work If You Can Get It 2:07
  • 12 Shall We Dance 2:18
  • 13 The Man I Love 3:34
  • 14 Fascinating Rhythm 3:00
  • 15 It Ain't Necessarily So Start here 3:17
  • 16 Somebody Loves Me 3:25
  • 17 Strike Up the Band 3:17
  • 18 I've Got a Crush on You 2:57
  • 19 I Was Doing All Right 2:45
  • 20 's Wonderful 2:39
  • 21 Oh, Lady Be Good 3:54
  • 22 I Got Rhythm 3:19
  • 23 A Foggy Day 3:40
  • 24 Love Walked In 3:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata