The Who, one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, has had a profound influence on the world of music. But did you know that their influence extends beyond the realm of rock and roll? In this comprehensive overview, we’ll explore the impact that The Who had on jazz music and the bands that followed in their footsteps. From their pioneering use of power chords to their groundbreaking live performances, The Who’s influence on jazz can be seen in the music of some of the genre’s most celebrated artists. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the incredible influence of The Who on jazz.
The Who’s Musical Style and Genre
Their Influence on Rock Music
Characteristics of The Who’s Music
The Who’s music was characterized by their innovative use of power chords, energetic live performances, and incorporation of feedback and distortion into their sound. Their music was known for its raw, powerful, and dynamic style, which set them apart from other rock bands of their time.
Power Chords
The Who’s use of power chords was a significant influence on rock music. Power chords are simple chord progressions played on the lower strings of an electric guitar, which create a full, rich sound. The Who’s use of power chords in their music gave it a distinctive, powerful sound that was emulated by many subsequent rock bands.
Energetic Live Performances
The Who were known for their energetic and dynamic live performances, which often included smashing guitars and drums on stage. Their performances were highly theatrical and visually engaging, and they were known for their showmanship and stage presence.
Use of Feedback and Distortion
The Who were also known for their innovative use of feedback and distortion in their music. They were among the first rock bands to experiment with the use of feedback, which is the high-pitched sound that is created when a guitar amplifier is turned up too loud. Their use of feedback and distortion added a raw, edgy quality to their music that was imitated by many subsequent rock bands.
Overall, The Who’s musical style and genre had a significant influence on rock music, particularly in terms of their use of power chords, energetic live performances, and innovative use of feedback and distortion. Their music was raw, powerful, and dynamic, and it set a new standard for rock music that was emulated by many subsequent bands.
Jazz Musicians Influenced by The Who
Miles Davis
Kind of Blue
- Album Overview: Released in 1959, Kind of Blue is a seminal album in the genre of jazz, widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz albums of all time. The album was recorded over the course of two sessions and features an all-star lineup of jazz musicians, including Miles Davis on trumpet, John Coltrane on saxophone, Bill Evans on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Jimmy Cobb on drums.
- The Who’s Influence: The Who’s music, with its blend of rock, jazz, and classical elements, had a significant impact on Miles Davis. He was particularly drawn to the band’s innovative use of feedback and distortion, which he incorporated into his own music.
- Musical Style: Kind of Blue is characterized by its modal jazz style, which emphasizes mode over chord progression. The album features several classic jazz standards, including “So What,” “Freddie Freeloader,” and “All Blues.”
Sketches of Spain
- Album Overview: Released in 1960, Sketches of Spain is an album that blends jazz with classical music, specifically Spanish classical music. The album features an orchestra conducted by the Spanish composer and conductor, Felix Soria.
- The Who’s Influence: The Who’s use of orchestral arrangements and rock-jazz fusion inspired Miles Davis to incorporate similar elements into his own music.
- Musical Style: Sketches of Spain is characterized by its blend of jazz and Spanish classical music. The album features several original compositions by Miles Davis, including “The Pan Piper” and “Saeta.”
In a Silent Way
- Album Overview: Released in 1969, In a Silent Way is an album that marked a departure from Miles Davis’s previous work. The album features a new style of jazz that emphasizes electronic instruments and minimalist compositions.
- The Who’s Influence: The Who’s innovative use of electronic instruments and sound effects influenced Miles Davis’s decision to incorporate similar elements into his own music.
- Musical Style: In a Silent Way is characterized by its fusion of jazz, rock, and electronic music. The album features several minimalist compositions, including “In a Silent Way” and “It’s About That Time.”
Charlie Watts
The Rolling Stones
Charlie Watts, a prominent jazz and rock drummer, was a member of the Rolling Stones, one of the most influential rock bands in history. Although Watts is primarily known for his work with the Rolling Stones, his love for jazz music has always been a driving force in his artistic endeavors.
Bo Diddley
Watts’ interest in jazz was not limited to the genre itself; he was also heavily influenced by blues and R&B musician Bo Diddley. Diddley’s unique style of music, which blended elements of blues, jazz, and rock ‘n’ roll, had a profound impact on Watts’ own musical style.
Swinging London
Watts was part of the Swinging London scene, a cultural movement that emerged in the 1960s, which celebrated jazz, fashion, and art. This vibrant and diverse cultural scene brought together musicians, artists, and intellectuals from all over the world, creating a fertile ground for the exchange of ideas and the development of new artistic forms.
Throughout his career, Charlie Watts has remained committed to exploring the intersection of jazz and rock music, creating a unique sound that blends the rhythmic complexity of jazz with the raw energy of rock ‘n’ roll. His work with the Rolling Stones and his contributions to the jazz world have had a lasting impact on both genres, and his influence on future generations of musicians is undeniable.
The Who’s Influence on Jazz Today
Jazz-Rock Fusion
Return to Forever
Return to Forever was a jazz-rock fusion band formed by the legendary drummer, Chick Corea, in 1972. The band’s sound was heavily influenced by The Who’s use of rock music elements in their compositions. Corea’s incorporation of electric piano, synthesizers, and drum solos, as well as his experimentation with different time signatures, was heavily influenced by The Who’s music. Return to Forever’s albums, such as “Hymn of the Seventh Galaxy” and “Romantic Warrior,” showcased the fusion of rock and jazz, and the band’s influence on the jazz-rock fusion genre.
Mahavishnu Orchestra
Mahavishnu Orchestra was another influential jazz-rock fusion band that was heavily influenced by The Who. The band was formed by guitarist John McLaughlin in 1971, and their music combined elements of rock, jazz, and Indian classical music. McLaughlin’s use of electric guitar and his experimental approach to jazz and rock music was heavily influenced by The Who’s music. The band’s albums, such as “The Inner Mounting Flame” and “Birds of Fire,” featured complex compositions with rock and jazz elements, and their influence on the jazz-rock fusion genre was significant.
Weather Report
Weather Report was a jazz-rock fusion band formed by saxophonist Wayne Shorter and keyboardist Joe Zawinul in 1970. The band’s music was heavily influenced by The Who’s use of rock music elements in their compositions. Shorter and Zawinul’s incorporation of electric instruments, such as the synthesizer and electric piano, as well as their experimentation with different time signatures, was heavily influenced by The Who’s music. Weather Report’s albums, such as “Weather Report” and “Mysterious Traveller,” showcased the fusion of rock and jazz, and their influence on the jazz-rock fusion genre was significant.
The Who’s Influence on Punk and Post-Punk Jazz
Ornette Coleman
Ornette Coleman, a jazz saxophonist and composer, was heavily influenced by The Who’s music. He was particularly drawn to Pete Townshend’s guitar playing and the band’s use of feedback and distortion. Coleman incorporated these elements into his own music, blending them with the traditional jazz sounds of his day. His 1960s albums, such as “Free Jazz” and “The Shape of Jazz to Come,” showcased his unique fusion of rock and jazz.
Cecil Taylor
Cecil Taylor, a jazz pianist and poet, was also influenced by The Who’s music. He was fascinated by the band’s use of rhythm and energy, and incorporated these elements into his own performances. Taylor’s style was characterized by its complexity and dynamism, and he often incorporated elements of rock and blues into his jazz compositions. His 1960s albums, such as “Unit Structures” and “Conquistador,” are notable for their fusion of jazz and rock influences.
Albert Ayler
Albert Ayler, a jazz saxophonist and composer, was heavily influenced by The Who’s music. He was particularly drawn to the band’s use of distortion and feedback, and incorporated these elements into his own music. Ayler’s style was characterized by its raw energy and emotional intensity, and he often incorporated elements of rock and blues into his jazz compositions. His 1960s albums, such as “Spiritual Unity” and “Bells,” showcase his unique fusion of rock and jazz.
The Legacy of The Who on Jazz
Changing the Perception of Rock and Jazz
Breaking Down Musical Barriers
The Who, with their unique fusion of rock and jazz, played a pivotal role in breaking down the barriers that once separated these two genres. By blending the raw energy of rock with the sophistication of jazz, they created a sound that was both innovative and groundbreaking. Their experimentation with different musical styles and techniques opened up new possibilities for other musicians to explore, and helped to establish jazz-rock as a legitimate subgenre of music.
Merging Genres
The Who’s approach to music was characterized by a willingness to push boundaries and challenge conventions. They were not afraid to merge different genres and styles, creating a sound that was both original and compelling. Their fusion of rock and jazz was not just a musical experiment, but a statement about the limitless potential of music. By merging these two seemingly disparate genres, The Who demonstrated that there were no limits to what could be achieved through creativity and innovation.
Bridging the Gap between Pop and Jazz
The Who’s music also played a significant role in bridging the gap between pop and jazz. By incorporating elements of both genres into their sound, they helped to create a new sound that was accessible to a wider audience. Their music was both experimental and commercially successful, demonstrating that it was possible to push the boundaries of music while still appealing to a mainstream audience. In doing so, The Who helped to pave the way for other musicians to follow, and their influence can still be felt in the music industry today.
The Who’s Enduring Influence on Jazz
Inspiring Future Generations of Musicians
The Who’s impact on jazz is not limited to their contemporaries. Even years after their emergence, the band continues to inspire future generations of musicians. Many jazz artists have cited The Who as a significant influence on their music, stating that the band’s innovative approach to rock music inspired them to push boundaries and take risks in their own music. The Who’s fusion of rock and jazz elements opened up new possibilities for musicians, encouraging them to experiment with different genres and create a unique sound that blended different musical styles.
Continuing to Influence Jazz Musicians Today
The Who’s influence on jazz is not limited to the past. Even today, jazz musicians continue to be inspired by the band’s music. Many contemporary jazz artists have covered The Who’s songs, incorporating their unique style into their own music. In addition, The Who’s influence can be seen in the music of many modern jazz bands, who have adopted the band’s approach to fusing different genres and creating a unique sound. The Who’s impact on jazz is not limited to their music alone. Their influence can also be seen in the way they approached their music, pushing boundaries and taking risks, which has inspired many jazz musicians to do the same.
Leaving a Lasting Impact on the Music World
The Who’s influence on jazz is not just limited to the world of music. Their impact can also be seen in the way they approached their music, which has influenced the way other artists think about their own music. The Who’s approach to music, which combined different genres and styles, challenged traditional notions of what music could be. This approach has inspired many artists across different genres, not just jazz, to think outside the box and create unique sounds that blend different musical styles. The Who’s impact on jazz, and music as a whole, is a testament to their innovative approach to music and their willingness to take risks and push boundaries.
FAQs
1. What is the Who and what type of music did they play?
The Who is a rock band that was formed in 1964 in London, England. They are known for their energetic live performances and their blend of rock, pop, and punk music.
2. Who were some of the bands that the Who influenced?
The Who influenced many bands across several genres, including punk rock, heavy metal, and jazz. Some of the bands that have cited the Who as an influence include The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and The Clash.
3. How did the Who influence jazz music?
The Who’s music incorporated elements of jazz, such as complex harmonies and improvisation, which had a significant impact on jazz musicians. Many jazz musicians were inspired by the Who’s innovative approach to rock music and incorporated elements of rock into their own music.
4. Can you provide some examples of jazz musicians who were influenced by the Who?
Yes, many jazz musicians have been influenced by the Who, including Miles Davis, who covered the Who’s song “My Generation” on his album “Filles de Kilimanjaro,” and Charles Mingus, who recorded a version of the Who’s “I Put a Spell on You.” Other jazz musicians who have cited the Who as an influence include Ornette Coleman, Pat Metheny, and Sonny Rollins.
5. What other bands have been influenced by the Who?
In addition to jazz musicians, many rock and punk bands have been influenced by the Who. Some of these bands include The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, The Clash, and The Who’s own contemporaries, such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. The Who’s music has also influenced more recent bands, such as Foo Fighters and Green Day.
