Ray Brown - His Life and Music - Jay Sweet
The Ray Brown Trio with Gene Harris and Further Leadership (1980-1991)
Ray Brown - His Life and Music - Jay Sweet
Jay Sweet [+]
musician, educator and writer
Jay Sweet is a professional jazz bassist, educator, writer, and researcher. Currently, he teaches bass instruction and courses in Jazz History, American Music History, and Music Appreciation at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey. He has also taught several related courses at Middlesex College and Rutgers University. In addition, he is the owner and director of Sweet Music Academy, where he and his fantastic staff of highly trained instructors have taught well over 3,500 students through his efforts. Along with teaching, Jay Sweet is an active performer who has performed and recorded with several noted artists. Most recently, he has worked as a contributing editor of Jersey Jazz Magazine and author of the books A History of American Music: An Origin Story 1750-1950 and The Music of 1964: The 50 Most Impactful Albums.
Jay Sweet holds degrees from Berklee College of Music (B.M.) and Rutgers University (M.M.). He is also the host of the popular podcasts 30 Albums For 30 Years (1964-1994) and The Jazz Real Book.
Jay Sweet holds degrees from Berklee College of Music (B.M.) and Rutgers University (M.M.). He is also the host of the popular podcasts 30 Albums For 30 Years (1964-1994) and The Jazz Real Book.
Description
Ray Brown transitioned into a leadership role, forming his trio to explore and showcase his preferred jazz styles—swing, bebop, blues, and funk. Collaborating with pianist Gene Harris and drummer Jeff Hamilton, the trio produced notable albums like Soular Energy and Bam, Bam, Bam. Their classic lineup demonstrated exceptional small-group interplay, highlighted in live recordings such as Summerwind and Georgia on My Mind. Brown's leadership extended beyond the trio, contributing to various projects, including collaborations with Gene Harris and participation in big band ventures. The era concluded with the release of 3 Dimensional before Harris's departure in 1991.