swing
style of jazz
Swing music is all about the rhythm—the kind that gets your toes tapping and your body moving. Its upbeat tempo, syncopated beats, and lush brass arrangements create a lively atmosphere that's both joyful and infectious. Imagine a dance floor filled with couples twirling and gliding to the sound of vibrant horns and a steady double bass, all underpinned by an irresistible groove. Whether it’s the smooth glissando of a saxophone or the jubilant snaps of a jazz guitar, swing captures the essence of fun in every note.
Emerging from the jazz scene in the 1930s, swing music evolved as a response to the more relaxed tempos of earlier jazz styles, adapting to the dance crazes of the era. Big bands led by figures like Duke Ellington and Count Basie brought this sound into the mainstream, while artists such as Benny Goodman famously popularized it in venues like New York's Palomar Ballroom. This period marked not just a musical revolution but also an escape for many during the Great Depression, offering a soundtrack rich with energy and hope.
For those looking to delve into swing, start with Benny Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing,” where frenetic energy meets musical virtuosity. Count Basie's “One O'Clock Jump” will give you a taste of expertly crafted ensemble play that epitomizes the genre. Duke Ellington’s “Take The 'A' Train” showcases clever harmonies and compelling melodies that are quintessentially swing. Finally, don’t miss Ella Fitzgerald—her vocal delivery on tracks like "A-Tisket, A-Tasket" is pure delight. Once you're hooked on swing, keep an ear out for nearby sounds like jump blues or early rock and roll!
287 artists in the catalog.
Guides for swing artists
Top swing albums
See essentials
All swing artists
Benny Carter
jazz
Glenn Miller
blues, jazz
Brian Setzer
alternative rock, jump blues
Bucky Pizzarelli
jazz
Zoot Sims
jazz
John Surman
experimental rock, jazz
Cedar Walton
jazz
David Campbell
Clark Terry
bebop, crossover jazz
Benny Goodman
big band music, jazz
Fred Astaire
big band music, jazz
Louie Bellson
jazz
Norman Brown
jazz
Stéphane Grappelli
Gypsy jazz
Count Basie
jazz
Bill Wyman
blues rock, rhythm and blues
About swing
What is swing?
style of jazz
Where should I start with swing?
Start with "Esco di rado e parlo ancora meno" by Adriano Celentano. It captures what makes swing worth exploring.
What are the best swing albums?
The swing albums worth hearing first: "Esco di rado e parlo ancora meno" by Adriano Celentano, "Duets II" by Frank Sinatra, "Sinatra & Company" by Frank Sinatra, "Look to Your Heart" by Frank Sinatra and "Dedicated to You" by Frank Sinatra.
How many swing artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 287 swing artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.