Jazz definitely lends itself well to a relaxing, romantic ambiance. What is it about jazz that makes it such a sensual musical genre? We’ll explore this more in this blog!
Starts with the Saxophone
The saxophone is a fairly new instrument. It was invented in 1840 by a Belgian man named Adolphe Sax. As a woodwind instrument, it gets its sound from a reed vibrating throughout the metal body of the saxophone.
As with many new forms of music (think of the backlash Elvis’s music and dancing received from the older generations of the time, for example), jazz was seen as rebellious new music belonging to the youth. Coupled with the dancing that went along with it, it came to be seen as something overly sexual. As the new instrument on the block, the saxophone got slated as the main culprit for this.
And who can blame people? The sax, with its low, smooth, sultry tune, can be enough to conjure up feelings of romance by itself!
Jazz in Media and Pop Culture
Nowadays, jazz is often used in movies and TV shows to indicate a particularly romantic or sensuous moment is in the works. So even though we are far removed from the time where jazz was considered new and “out there,” we still associate it with sensuality and romance! The beauty of jazz, though, is that it can be many things. It can call up feelings of relaxation, excitement, anticipation, freedom, comedy, and more!
Jazz Love Songs
So it should go without saying that there are plenty of jazz love songs out there! If you’re in the mood for some sweet, love-inspiring melodies, here is a list of some jazz love songs to get you started:
“Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall in Love)” by Ella Fitzgerald: This song was written in 1928 by Cole Porter, and Ella Fitzgerald sang her ever-so-popular rendition in 1956. Full of playful language and double-entendres, you need to check it out!
“My One and Only Love” by John Coltrane and John Hartman: The dynamic duo created this slow, easygoing melody in 1963. Lyrics like “The very thought of you makes my heart sing / Like an April breeze on the wings of spring” will have you feeling the love in no time.
“It’s a Wonderful Time for Love” by Norah Jones: An upbeat song from 2016. You’ll also love the accompanying bass by Vicente Archer and Brian Blade on drums.
“Moonlight Serenade” by Frank Sinatra: Who better for a lovely serenade than Frank Sinatra? Originally composed by Glenn Miller in 1939, this song will sweep you off your feet (quite literally if you dance to it!)
“Sugar On My Lips” by Sharon Marie Cline: Finally, by yours truly, check out this smooth, sensuous song featuring the Bad Boys of Jazz! And you can watch the video here.
