Thelonious Monk is one of the most influential jazz pianists and composers of all time. His idiosyncratic style, characterized by angular melodies and dissonant harmonies, has had a profound impact on the development of modern jazz. With a career spanning over three decades, Monk wrote and performed a vast array of compositions, many of which have become standards in the jazz repertoire. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Thelonious Monk songs of all time, highlighting his most memorable compositions and showcasing his unique approach to jazz music. From classics like “Round Midnight” and “Blue Monk” to lesser-known gems like “Pannonica” and “Criss Cross,” these songs offer a glimpse into the genius of Monk’s music and the depth of his musical vision. Whether you’re a longtime fan of jazz or a newcomer to the genre, this list is sure to provide a rich and rewarding listening experience, and a deeper appreciation for one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century.
1. ‘ROUND MIDNIGHT
“Round Midnight” is a jazz standard composed by Thelonious Monk in 1944, with lyrics added by Cootie Williams and Bernie Hanighen. The song has since become one of the most recorded jazz compositions of all time, with countless renditions by jazz greats such as Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Dexter Gordon. The melancholic melody, coupled with Monk’s distinct harmonic choices, creates a moody and evocative atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful. The song’s lyrics speak to the loneliness and melancholy of the late-night hours, capturing the mood of the nocturnal cityscape. “Round Midnight” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with jazz fans around the world, and a testament to the genius of Thelonious Monk’s musical vision.
2. EVIDENCE
“Evidence” is a lively and playful tune by Thelonious Monk, originally recorded in 1948. The song features Monk’s unique approach to jazz composition, with its bouncy rhythms and angular melodic lines. The title of the song comes from a pun on the word “evident,” with the melody and chords of the song played in a way that suggests the presence of underlying musical evidence. The tune has since become a jazz standard, with numerous interpretations by a wide range of musicians. “Evidence” showcases Monk’s playful and experimental approach to jazz, and remains a beloved and influential composition in the jazz canon.
3. RUBY MY DEAR
“Ruby, My Dear” is a beautiful ballad composed by Thelonious Monk in 1947, and is one of his most well-known and loved compositions. The tune has a haunting melody and features Monk’s distinctive chordal approach, with its emphasis on dissonance and unusual harmonies. The song was dedicated to Monk’s first love, Rubie Richardson, and captures the melancholy and longing of lost love. The tune has been covered by countless jazz musicians, including John Coltrane and Art Pepper, and remains a beloved classic in the jazz repertoire. “Ruby, My Dear” is a testament to Monk’s unique and innovative musical vision, and his ability to create timeless and deeply moving compositions that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
4. EPISTROPHY
“Epistrophy” is a classic jazz tune composed by Thelonious Monk and Kenny Clarke in 1941, and is one of Monk’s most recognized and performed compositions. The song features a catchy melody and a quirky, syncopated rhythm that is instantly recognizable. The title of the song comes from the Greek word “epistrophe,” which means “turning about,” and refers to the repeated melodic motif that serves as the song’s main theme. The tune has been covered by many jazz musicians, including Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, and remains a popular and beloved composition in the jazz repertoire. “Epistrophy” is a testament to Monk’s innovative approach to jazz composition and his ability to create complex and memorable melodies that continue to inspire musicians and jazz fans around the world.
5. PANNONICA
“Pannonica” is a beautiful and contemplative tune by Thelonious Monk, named after Pannonica de Koenigswarter, a patron of jazz music who supported many musicians during the 1950s and 1960s. The song was composed in 1957, and features a hauntingly beautiful melody and a delicate, introspective mood. The tune showcases Monk’s ability to create evocative and deeply emotional compositions, and has been covered by many jazz musicians, including saxophonist Stan Getz and pianist Bill Evans. “Pannonica” is a testament to Monk’s unique musical vision and his ability to create timeless and deeply moving compositions that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
6. I MEAN YOU
“I Mean You” is a fun and upbeat tune composed by Thelonious Monk and Coleman Hawkins in 1947. The song features a lively and infectious melody and a swinging rhythm that invites listeners to tap their feet and dance along. The tune showcases Monk’s unique and innovative approach to jazz composition, and has been covered by many jazz musicians, including pianist Bill Evans and saxophonist Sonny Rollins. “I Mean You” is a testament to Monk’s ability to create joyful and energetic compositions that never fail to entertain and delight audiences.
7. MISTERIOSO
“Misterioso” is a classic jazz tune composed by Thelonious Monk in 1948. The song features a haunting and mysterious melody and a syncopated rhythm that is both challenging and captivating. The tune showcases Monk’s unique and innovative approach to jazz composition, and has been covered by many jazz musicians, including saxophonist John Coltrane and pianist Chick Corea. “Misterioso” is a testament to Monk’s ability to create evocative and deeply emotional compositions that continue to inspire and fascinate listeners today.
8. WELL YOU NEEDN’T
“Well You Needn’t” is a lively and playful tune composed by Thelonious Monk in 1944. The song features a catchy melody and a bouncy rhythm that is both fun and challenging to play. The tune showcases Monk’s unique and innovative approach to jazz composition, and has been covered by many jazz musicians, including saxophonist Charlie Parker and pianist Herbie Hancock. “Well You Needn’t” is a testament to Monk’s ability to create joyful and energetic compositions that continue to inspire and excite listeners today.
9. ASK ME NOW
“Ask Me Now” is a beautiful and soulful ballad composed by Thelonious Monk in 1951. The song features a delicate melody and a slow, contemplative tempo that creates a sense of intimacy and introspection. The tune showcases Monk’s unique and innovative approach to jazz composition, and has been covered by many jazz musicians, including saxophonist Sonny Rollins and pianist Bill Evans. “Ask Me Now” is a testament to Monk’s ability to create deeply emotional and expressive compositions that continue to touch the hearts of listeners today.
10. THINK OF ONE
“Think of One” is an upbeat and funky tune composed by Thelonious Monk in 1953. The song features a groovy and syncopated rhythm that is both infectious and challenging to play. The tune showcases Monk’s unique and innovative approach to jazz composition, and has been covered by many jazz musicians, including saxophonist Joe Henderson and pianist Ahmad Jamal. “Think of One” is a testament to Monk’s ability to create fun and energetic compositions that continue to inspire and excite listeners today.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
