Summertime

Definition

'Summertime' is a jazz standard originally composed by George Gershwin for the opera 'Porgy and Bess' in 1934. It has become a quintessential piece in jazz, often interpreted and reinterpreted by various artists, showcasing the emotive power of vocalists in the genre. The song's haunting melody and lyrics capture the essence of summer and have made it a favorite among singers, allowing vocalists to express their artistry and emotional depth through performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Summertime' features a lullaby-like quality that lends itself well to expressive vocal interpretations, making it a go-to choice for many jazz singers.
2. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong, each bringing their unique style and emotional depth to the piece.
3. 'Summertime' is often performed in various tempos and styles, from slow ballads to more upbeat arrangements, demonstrating its versatility as a jazz standard.
4. The rich harmonic structure of 'Summertime' provides an ideal canvas for vocal improvisation, allowing singers to explore creative phrasing and interpretation.
5. Due to its popularity and emotional resonance, 'Summertime' remains an enduring staple in jazz vocal performances around the world.

Review Questions

• How does 'Summertime' exemplify the role of vocalists in jazz music?
  • 'Summertime' showcases the role of vocalists in jazz by highlighting their ability to convey deep emotion and personal expression through performance. The song's lyrical content and haunting melody allow singers to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Vocalists often utilize improvisation when interpreting 'Summertime,' demonstrating their artistry while also engaging with the song's rich harmonic structure.
• In what ways have influential female jazz vocalists contributed to the legacy of 'Summertime'?
  • Influential female jazz vocalists such as Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald have left a significant mark on the legacy of 'Summertime' through their unique interpretations. These artists brought their individual styles and emotional depth to the song, helping to popularize it within the jazz genre. Their renditions not only showcase their technical skills but also highlight the importance of personal expression in jazz singing.
• Evaluate how the interpretations of 'Summertime' by different vocalists reflect cultural and historical contexts within jazz.
  • 'Summertime' has been interpreted by various vocalists across different cultural and historical contexts, reflecting the evolving landscape of jazz music. For instance, Billie Holiday's version captures the struggles of African Americans during her time, infusing it with a sense of longing and melancholy. In contrast, contemporary artists may infuse elements from pop or world music into their renditions, showcasing the song's adaptability while also commenting on current social issues. This diversity in interpretation illustrates how 'Summertime' remains relevant across generations while still paying homage to its roots in American jazz.

Related terms

Jazz Standard: 'Jazz Standard' refers to a musical composition that is widely known and performed in the jazz repertoire, often serving as a foundational piece for improvisation and reinterpretation.

Vocal Improvisation: 'Vocal Improvisation' is the spontaneous creation of melodies or lyrics by vocalists during a performance, allowing them to express their individuality and emotions in real time.

Swing: 'Swing' is a style of jazz characterized by a strong rhythm and groove, often influencing how vocalists deliver their phrasing and interact with instrumentalists during a performance.