About the song
Carole King is a name that echoes through the halls of music history with an enduring legacy. Renowned for her evocative songwriting and soulful performances, King has gifted the world numerous timeless classics. Among these gems is the captivating track “Jazzman”, a song that captures the spirit and essence of jazz in a way that only Carole King can.
Released in 1974, “Jazzman” is a testament to King’s versatility and deep understanding of music’s emotional landscape. The song, featured on her album Wrap Around Joy, showcases her ability to transcend genres, blending the rich traditions of jazz with her signature pop sensibility. This fusion is not just a tribute to the genre but a masterclass in musical storytelling.
“Jazzman” opens with an infectious groove, immediately drawing listeners into its vibrant world. The saxophone, played by the talented Tom Scott, weaves through the track with a smooth yet powerful presence, setting the stage for King’s evocative vocals. Her voice, warm and rich, tells a story of solace and connection, painting a vivid picture of the jazzman who brings joy and respite through his music.
The lyrics of “Jazzman” are a poetic homage to the musicians who pour their hearts into their art, often finding peace and purpose through their craft. Lines like “Lift me, won’t you lift me above the old routine; make it nice, play it clean jazzman” encapsulate the song’s essence, celebrating the transformative power of music. It’s a song that speaks to anyone who has ever found themselves lost in the rhythms and melodies that offer a temporary escape from life’s monotony.
Carole King’s ability to create such a profound connection with her audience is evident in “Jazzman”. The song’s production, layered with lush instrumentation and King’s impeccable piano work, creates an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and refreshing. It’s a reminder of the golden era of music while also standing as a timeless piece that continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.
“Jazzman” was also a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100. This achievement underscores King’s knack for creating music that is both critically acclaimed and widely loved. The song’s popularity is a testament to its universal appeal and the deep emotional chord it strikes with its audience.
In “Jazzman,” Carole King not only pays tribute to the jazz greats who influenced her but also cements her place among the musical legends. The song is a beautiful blend of heartfelt lyrics, masterful instrumentation, and King’s unparalleled vocal delivery. It’s a piece that invites listeners to not just hear, but to feel the music—to let it lift them above the ordinary and into a place where the spirit of jazz lives on.
For anyone seeking to understand the magic of Carole King’s artistry, “Jazzman” is an essential listen. It encapsulates the depth, warmth, and enduring appeal of her music, making it a cherished part of her illustrious catalog.
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Lyrics
Lift me, won’t you lift me above the old routine?Make it nice, play it clean, jazzmanWhen the jazzman’s testifyin’ a faithless man believesHe can sing you into paradise or bring you to your kneesIt’s a gospel kind of feelin’, a touch of Georgia slideA song of pure revival and a style that’s sanctifiedJazzman take my blues away, make my painThe same as yours with every change you playOh jazzman, come on now, jazzmanWhen the jazzman is signifyin’, and the band is windin’ lowIt’s the late night side of morning in the darkness of his soulHe can fill a room with sadness as he fills his horn with tearsHe can cry like a fallen angel when risin’ time is nearJazzman take my blues away, make my painThe same as yours with every change you playOh lift me, won’t you lift me with every turn aroundPlay it sweetly, take me down, come on, jazzmanCome on, come on, come on, come on, come on, yeahYeah, let me hear yaOh-oh, yeah, yeahHere we go now