Blue note

Blue Note is a prominent record label known for its significant contributions to jazz music. Founded in 1939 by Alfred Lion and Max Margulis, Blue Note has been instrumental in the development and promotion of several jazz sub-genres, including bebop, hard bop, and avant-garde jazz.

History

Blue Note was established in New York City by Alfred Lion, a German immigrant, and Max Margulis, a music writer. The label's first recording was by the boogie-woogie pianists Albert Ammons and Meade Lux Lewis. In its early years, Blue Note focused on traditional jazz and swing, but it soon became a leading label for modern jazz.

In the 1950s, under the guidance of producer Rudy Van Gelder, Blue Note began to focus on hard bop, a style that combined elements of bebop with blues and gospel music. This period saw the release of several influential albums by artists such as Art Blakey, Horace Silver, and Jimmy Smith.

In the 1960s, Blue Note embraced the avant-garde jazz movement, releasing albums by innovative artists like Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy, and Andrew Hill. The label also continued to support hard bop, with notable releases from Lee Morgan, Hank Mobley, and Wayne Shorter.

Blue Note has continued to be a major force in jazz music, with a roster that includes contemporary artists such as Norah Jones, Robert Glasper, and Ambrose Akinmusire.

Impact and Legacy

Blue Note's impact on jazz music cannot be overstated. The label has been instrumental in the development of several jazz sub-genres, and its commitment to artistic integrity and innovation has set a standard for other record labels. Blue Note's distinctive album cover designs, often featuring the photography of Francis Wolff and the graphic design of Reid Miles, have also had a significant impact on visual culture.

See Also

• List of Blue Note artists
• History of jazz
• Record label

References

• Cuscuna, M., & Ruppli, M. (2001). The Blue Note Label: A Discography. Greenwood Press.
• Cook, R., & Morton, B. (2008). The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings. Penguin.