“Moanin'” | Listener Picks, April 3

Composed by pianist Bobby Timmons, “Moanin’” first appeared on the 1958 album of the same name by Art Blakely & The Jazz Messengers.

Tune in today as we celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month with some of this compositions most notable covers!

In an interview with jazz journalist Bob Bernotas, Jazz Messenger tenor saxophonist Benny Golson said he prompted Timmons to expand on a funky eight-bar lick he would often play between tunes. This lick is what evolved into “Moanin’,” which features a call and response melody.

The same night Timmons wrote “Moanin’,”  Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers played the tune live at a venue called Marty’s in Columbus, Ohio. Golson recalls that the crowd loved it.

Noted jazz writer Gary Giddins said “Moanin'”  “set the music world on its ear” and that it was “part of the funky, back to roots movement called “soul jazz.”

Sadly, Timmons – gifted Philadelphia pianist and composer who also gave the world the jazz standard “Dat Dere” – died at only 38 years of age.

They are approximately 310 recorded covers of”Moanin’.” Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month  by tuning in to hear some of this compositions most notable covers all day long!