The Real Thing
Dizzy Gillespie · 1970
37 min · 9 tracks · bebop · Afro-Cuban jazz
A vibrant tapestry of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz improvisation that showcases Gillespie's innovative spirit.
The Real Thing is an album by Dizzy Gillespie, released in 1970. A vibrant tapestry of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz improvisation that showcases Gillespie's innovative spirit. 'The Real Thing' is significant for its role in popularizing Afro-Cuban jazz during a time when the genre was gaining traction in the U.S. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative compositions and helped solidify Gillespie's status as a pivotal figure in both jazz and world music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Real Thing sound like?
A vibrant tapestry of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz improvisation that showcases Gillespie's innovative spirit. Rooted in bebop and Afro-Cuban jazz.
What makes The Real Thing by Dizzy Gillespie notable?
'The Real Thing' is significant for its role in popularizing Afro-Cuban jazz during a time when the genre was gaining traction in the U.S. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative compositions and helped solidify Gillespie's status as a pivotal figure in both jazz and world music. By 1970, Dizzy Gillespie was a seasoned jazz innovator, transitioning from his earlier big band successes to explore more eclectic sounds. 'The Real Thing' followed his 1969 album 'Dizzy's Big 4', marking a period of artistic experimentation as he fused traditional jazz with Afro-Cuban elements.
How many songs are on The Real Thing?
The Real Thing has 9 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 N'Bani Standout 4:06
- 2 Matrix 4:04
- 3 Alligator Standout 5:06
- 4 Closer 3:12
- 5 Soul Kiss 4:07
- 6 High on a Cloud 3:21
- 7 Summertime Standout 3:47
- 8 Let Me Outta Here 5:14
- 9 Ding-A-Ling 5:02
Release Date
January 1, 1970
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
37 min 59 sec
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