What makes What the World Needs Now by McCoy Tyner notable?

'What the World Needs Now' received critical acclaim for its fresh takes on familiar songs, helping to reintroduce Bacharach's work to a new audience within the jazz community. The album also contributed to the resurgence of interest in orchestral jazz arrangements during the late 1990s, influencing contemporaries and newer generations of musicians. By the time McCoy Tyner released 'What the World Needs Now' in 1997, he was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative work with John Coltrane and his own progressive ensembles. This album marked a return to the popular songbook format, showcasing his ability to reinterpret classic Burt Bacharach compositions through a jazz lens after a series of more avant-garde projects.

Who is What the World Needs Now for?

What the World Needs Now works well if you're into steady melodic progression throughout, heartfelt moments of reflection and for evening relaxation.

How many songs are on What the World Needs Now?

What the World Needs Now has 9 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

What the World Needs Now

McCoy Tyner · 1997

52 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A lush blend of ethereal jazz interpretations infused with heartfelt melodies, spotlighting Tyner's masterful piano arrangements.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
What the World Needs Now Is Love — This track captures Tyner's signature harmonic complexity while conveying a poignant message of hope, making it a standout interpretation of Bacharach's classic.
→
A House Is Not a Home — Tyner's arrangement transforms this ballad into an emotional journey, highlighting his skill in blending intricate piano work with expressive melodies.
→
(They Long to Be) Close to You — The interpretation showcases Tyner's ability to balance rhythm and melody, offering a fresh perspective on this well-loved standard that resonates with both jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Tyner's masterful arrangements and unique interpretations create a distinct and engaging listening experience.

What we noticed

Each track is arranged to highlight the interplay between piano and subtle backing instrumentation, allowing for dynamic shifts in mood.
The tempo varies across tracks, but the overall pacing remains relaxed, inviting listeners to engage deeply with the melodies.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady melodic progression throughout
heartfelt moments of reflection
for evening relaxation
intricate arrangements to savor
suitable for quiet gatherings

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer quick, standalone songs

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time McCoy Tyner released 'What the World Needs Now' in 1997, he was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative work with John Coltrane and his own progressive ensembles. This album marked a return to the popular songbook format, showcasing his ability to reinterpret classic Burt Bacharach compositions through a jazz lens after a series of more avant-garde projects.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· Keith Jarrett