Something to Live For: A Billy Strayhorn Songbook
John Hicks · 1998
66 min · 12 tracks · jazz
A lush tapestry of jazz standards woven with emotional depth and intricate harmonies celebrating Billy Strayhorn's legacy.
Why this album works
This album stands out for its critical acclaim, receiving praise for both Hicks' interpretative skill and the fidelity to Strayhorn's original intentions. It contributed to a renewed interest in Strayhorn's work during the late 1990s, influencing other jazz musicians to explore and reinterpret his catalog.
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo reflective moments emotional depth in every track for intimate gatherings
- Context
- At the time of the album's release in 1998, John Hicks was an established jazz pianist known for his collaborations with prominent figures like Archie Shepp and Max Roach. This album marked a significant moment in his career as it paid tribute to the often-overlooked composer Billy Strayhorn, expanding Hicks' repertoire while positioning him as a custodian of Strayhorn's sophisticated compositions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Diana Ross· Bob Dylan· Prince· Christina Aguilera· Madonna· Frank Zappa· Barbra Streisand· Aretha Franklin
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Something to Live For 5:46
- 2 Daydream 6:45
- 3 Medley: Lotus, Blossom 4:11
- 4 Blood Count Standout 7:05
- 5 A Flower Is a Lovesome Thing 3:10
- 6 Chelsea Bridge Standout 6:14
- 7 Lush Life Standout 6:09
- 8 UMMG 5:34
- 9 Minor Blues 4:36
- 10 Passion Flower 6:45
- 11 Satin Doll 5:26
- 12 Summary 5:01
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.