While jazz grew out of the New Orlean blues, making its way up the Mississippi and over to the jazz clubs of New York City, jazz also found itself in the foothills of Hollywood. So while it is Tinsel Town season, I thought I'd take a look at Jazz and Hollywood. Guess what I found? Sweet sounds; music for your ears...and eyes, too.

History has it that the first 'talkie' movie was 1927's, The Jazz Singer, produced by the Warner Brothers. This movie was the first film to combine dialogue with sound. And imagine, the theme was show business and a jazz singer! Very cool tunes.

There are movies, and films, that highlight jazz music, include it as part of the story, or simply use the tune, like Miles Davis' Generique – perfect for a French love scene. I have a list of movies that include jazz music, one way or another. The list is far...from complete. Any suggestions to add??

Shelly's Jazzy Movies

Fabulous Baker Boys – Dave Grusin

'Round Midnight – Herbie Hancock

Color Purple – Quincy Jones

Lady Sings the |Blues – Gil Askey

Breakfast at Tiffany's – Henry Mancini

Porgy and Bess – Andre Previn and Kevin Darcy

The Glen Miller Story – Henry Mancini

Listen for these jazzy Hollywood tunes on jazzavenue.ca:

The James Bond Theme – Danny Davis & Hie Orchestra

Never On A Sunday – Dizzy Gillespie

Moon River – Sarah Vaughn

Laura – Bert Kaempfert & His Orchestra

The Windmills of My Mind – Swing Out Sister

Wives and Lovers – Jack Jones

A Man and A Woman – Walter Wanderly Trio

See You At The Movies!