Porgy and Bess
Miles Davis · 1959
58 min · 15 tracks · jazz fusion · bebop · hard bop
A lush, orchestral reimagining of American folk and jazz that breathes new life into Gershwin's classic opera.
Why this album works
- Best for
- steady melodic exploration rich orchestral textures thoughtful afternoon listening
- Context
- Released on March 9, 1959, 'Porgy and Bess' marked a significant moment in Miles Davis's career, coming shortly after his groundbreaking album 'Kind of Blue'. This project showcased his willingness to experiment with orchestration and reinterpret jazz standards, highlighting both his artistic growth and the evolving landscape of jazz during this period.
- If you like
- jazz fusion, bebop, hard bop
Porgy and Bess is an album by Miles Davis, released in 1959. A lush, orchestral reimagining of American folk and jazz that breathes new life into Gershwin's classic opera. 'Porgy and Bess' is notable for its ambitious orchestration and innovative fusion of jazz and classical elements. It received critical acclaim upon release, solidifying Davis's reputation as a visionary artist and influencing countless musicians who sought to blend genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Porgy and Bess sound like?
A lush, orchestral reimagining of American folk and jazz that breathes new life into Gershwin's classic opera. Rooted in jazz fusion and bebop.
What makes Porgy and Bess by Miles Davis notable?
'Porgy and Bess' is notable for its ambitious orchestration and innovative fusion of jazz and classical elements. It received critical acclaim upon release, solidifying Davis's reputation as a visionary artist and influencing countless musicians who sought to blend genres. Released on March 9, 1959, 'Porgy and Bess' marked a significant moment in Miles Davis's career, coming shortly after his groundbreaking album 'Kind of Blue'. This project showcased his willingness to experiment with orchestration and reinterpret jazz standards, highlighting both his artistic growth and the evolving landscape of jazz during this period.
Who is Porgy and Bess for?
Porgy and Bess works well if you're into steady melodic exploration, rich orchestral textures and thoughtful afternoon listening.
How many songs are on Porgy and Bess?
Porgy and Bess has 15 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Buzzard Song 4:09
- 2 Bess, You Is My Woman Now Standout 5:12
- 3 Gone 3:38
- 4 Gone, Gone, Gone 2:05
- 5 Summertime Standout 3:21
- 6 Oh Bess, Oh Where's My Bess 4:30
- 7 Prayer (Oh Doctor Jesus) 4:42
- 8 Fishermen, Strawberry and Devil Crab 4:07
- 9 My Man's Gone Now Standout 6:16
- 10 It Ain't Necessarily So 4:25
- 11 Here Come de Honey Man 1:20
- 12 I Loves You, Porgy 3:42
- 13 There's a Boat That's Leaving Soon for New York 3:26
- 14 I Loves You, Porgy (take 1, Second version) 4:16
- 15 Gone (take 4) 3:40
Release Date
March 9, 1959
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
58 min 56 sec
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