This is great one to add to your repertoire if you want to feature your drummer. A jubilantly rhythmic piece,
Listen To Mister Jones not only shows off a vocalist's phrasing, but a drummer's as well. The oscillating play of vocals and percussion allows for the vocalist to challenge his/her rhythmic skills through a boisterous, upbeat tune.
Our audio except starts with the rhythm section intro set up. In Rachel's complete recording, an eight-bar rhythm section introduction kicks off the piece, followed by the first verse in a jaunty Latin style. At the bridge, the rhythm changes from Latin to swing and leads into some vocal exchanges with the drummer, then returns to Latin at the last A section with another section of vocal exchanges with the drummer. On our recording, the drums solo for two blues choruses, then Rachel enters on the bridge, singing through to the end of the verse. For other soloist ideas, see the instrumental version
Ka-Link.
Lyric Description: This lyric pays homage to the composer, legendary drummer Philly Joe Jones. The lyric encourages the audience to learn from the drummer's lifestyle—to know when it's time to step back from the fuss and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the music. The
carpe diem message of the song beautifully reflects its playful Latin and swing rhythms.
No-vocal version: Like Rachel's recording, there is an eight-bar introduction by the rhythm section in our No-vocal version. After one time through the form, a drum fill cues the singer to return to the B section and sing again to the end of the form. With this recording, it's crucial for the singer to listen carefully to what the instrumentalists are doing in the background—especially the drummer. Being aware of fills and comping will encourage the singer to improve rhythmic accuracy creatively.
If another key would be better for you, send the key you'd like to
Don and we'll post the transposition on the website for purchase. If you're not sure which key is best, send us your range and we'll work with you to figure out the best key.
"The JazzLeadSheets Songbook" was recorded at the legendary
Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs.
Don Sickler: "When I met Rachel Gould some years ago, she had already discovered the instrumental recording of
Ka-Link and loved it. The recording inspired Rachel to write a lyric tribute to composer and master drummer
Philly Joe Jones. In addition to drumming, Joe was a master storyteller (anyone who knew him will agree) and I'm sure he would have appreciated this lyric. I spent many hours in his presence, absolutely mesmerized, listening to one story after another, unable to tear myself away."
Hear more of Rachel Gould on "
The JazzLeadSheets Songbook."
