About The Song
So What
Written by Miles Davis, “So What” is the opening track on Miles Davis’s 1959 album Kind of Blue. The album is widely considered to be one of the greatest jazz albums of all time, and “So What” is one of its most famous tracks.
The song is a modal jazz composition, which means that it is based on a mode, or scale, rather than a traditional chord progression. This gives the song a unique sound that is both familiar and exotic. The melody is simple and memorable, and the rhythm is slow and steady.
“So What” is a showcase for Davis’s trumpet playing. He uses a variety of techniques, including muted trumpet, plunger mute, and wah-wah pedal, to create a wide range of sounds. The other members of the band, John Coltrane on saxophone, Cannonball Adderley on alto saxophone, Wynton Kelly on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Jimmy Cobb on drums, also give outstanding performances.
The song has been covered by many artists, including Miles Davis himself, who recorded it several times. It has also been used in many films and television shows. “So What” is a classic jazz composition that continues to be enjoyed by listeners around the world.
Some additional information about the song and its significance:
- “So What” was written in 1959, during a period of great innovation in jazz. Miles Davis was one of the leading figures in this movement, and he was always looking for new ways to express himself musically.
- The song is based on the Dorian mode, which is a scale that is often used in jazz. The Dorian mode has a dark and mysterious sound, which is perfect for the mood of “So What.”
- The song’s slow tempo and simple melody make it easy to listen to, but it is also a very sophisticated composition. The modal structure of the song allows for a great deal of improvisation, and the musicians on the recording take full advantage of this.
- “So What” is a landmark recording in the history of jazz. It is one of the most famous and influential modal jazz compositions, and it helped to change the direction of jazz music.
- The song continues to be enjoyed by listeners around the world. It is a classic jazz composition that is sure to be enjoyed for many years to come.