Gerry Mulligan was a legendary American jazz saxophonist, composer, and arranger known for his distinctive baritone saxophone sound and innovative approach to jazz music. Mulligan’s unique style of playing, which blended bebop, swing, and cool jazz, made him one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. He was also known for his collaborations with other jazz greats such as Chet Baker, Miles Davis, and Stan Getz.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Gerry Mulligan songs of all time, highlighting his most iconic and influential works. From his early days as a member of the Woody Herman Orchestra to his later collaborations with other jazz giants, Mulligan’s contributions to the world of jazz music continue to resonate with audiences today. Whether you’re a die-hard jazz fan or simply curious about this influential musician, this list is sure to provide a glimpse into the musical legacy of Gerry Mulligan.
1. Bunny
“Bunny” is a beautiful and haunting instrumental jazz ballad that showcases Gerry Mulligan’s unparalleled skill as a saxophonist and composer. Released in 1957 as part of the album “What Is There To Say?” the song begins with a slow and melancholic melody played by Mulligan’s baritone saxophone, before gradually building in intensity with the addition of piano and drums. The result is a soulful and emotive piece of music that perfectly captures the bittersweet essence of jazz. Mulligan’s nuanced and sensitive playing style is on full display in “Bunny,” with each note and phrase carefully crafted to convey a sense of longing and nostalgia. This timeless classic remains a testament to the enduring legacy of one of jazz music’s true greats.
2. What’s The Rush
“What’s The Rush” is a lively and upbeat jazz tune that features Gerry Mulligan’s signature baritone saxophone sound. Released in 1963 as part of the album “Night Lights,” the song is a testament to Mulligan’s ability to blend different styles of jazz seamlessly. With its catchy melody, swinging rhythm, and playful interplay between the saxophone and piano, “What’s The Rush” is a perfect example of Mulligan’s unique approach to jazz music. The song showcases Mulligan’s ability to effortlessly shift between playful and serious, and his incredible improvisational skills are on full display throughout. This dynamic and energetic track is a true classic that exemplifies the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the most innovative and influential jazz musicians of all time.
3. Back Beat
“Back Beat” is a dynamic and swinging jazz tune that showcases Gerry Mulligan’s incredible musical talent and innovative approach to jazz composition. Originally released in 1957 as part of the album “Gerry Mulligan Meets Ben Webster,” the song features a lively rhythm section, intricate piano lines, and, of course, Mulligan’s signature baritone saxophone sound. With its fast-paced melody and complex harmonies, “Back Beat” is a prime example of Mulligan’s ability to seamlessly blend different styles of jazz into a cohesive and compelling musical experience. Mulligan’s improvisational skills are also on full display in this track, as he effortlessly weaves in and out of the melody, adding his own unique flavor to the already rich musical tapestry. This classic jazz tune remains a testament to Mulligan’s enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of his time.
4. What It’s All About
“What It’s All About” is a soulful and introspective jazz ballad that highlights Gerry Mulligan’s talent as a composer and arranger. Originally released in 1968 as part of the album “Gerry Mulligan Presents a Concert in Jazz,” the song features a slow and melancholic melody that perfectly captures the bittersweet essence of jazz music. Mulligan’s delicate and nuanced playing style is on full display in this track, as he effortlessly weaves in and out of the melody, adding his own unique touch to the already beautiful composition. The addition of a string section gives the song a lush and romantic quality, further enhancing the emotional impact of the music. “What It’s All About” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today, a testament to the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
5. 18 Carrots For Rabbit
“18 Carrots For Rabbit” is a playful and upbeat jazz tune that showcases Gerry Mulligan’s unique style and approach to music. Originally released in 1977 as part of the album “Walk On The Water,” the song features a catchy melody, lively rhythm section, and, of course, Mulligan’s signature baritone saxophone sound. The addition of a harmonica to the mix gives the song a whimsical quality, adding to its overall charm and appeal. Mulligan’s improvisational skills are also on full display in this track, as he effortlessly navigates the complex harmonies and adds his own unique touch to the music. “18 Carrots For Rabbit” is a fun and lighthearted track that perfectly captures the joy and energy of jazz music, a testament to the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of his time.
6. Shady Side
“Shady Side” is a soulful and evocative jazz ballad that highlights Gerry Mulligan’s skill as a composer and arranger. Originally released in 1959 as part of the album “Gerry Mulligan and the Concert Jazz Band at the Village Vanguard,” the song features a slow and brooding melody that perfectly captures the melancholic mood of the piece. Mulligan’s nuanced and sensitive playing style is on full display in this track, as he carefully weaves in and out of the melody, adding his own unique flavor to the already rich musical tapestry. The addition of a brass section gives the song a grand and majestic quality, further enhancing its emotional impact. “Shady Side” is a timeless classic that remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
7. Body and Soul
“Body and Soul” is a classic jazz standard that showcases Gerry Mulligan’s incredible talent as a saxophonist and interpreter of music. Originally composed in 1930 by Johnny Green, Edward Heyman, Robert Sour, and Frank Eyton, the song has been covered by countless jazz musicians over the years, but Mulligan’s version remains one of the most iconic. Released in 1952 as part of the album “Gerry Mulligan Quartet,” the song features Mulligan’s signature baritone saxophone sound, which adds a unique richness and depth to the melody. Mulligan’s improvisational skills are also on full display in this track, as he expertly navigates the complex harmonies and adds his own unique touch to the music. “Body and Soul” is a timeless classic that remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
8. Indiana (Back Home Again in Indiana)
“Indiana (Back Home Again in Indiana)” is a classic jazz tune that showcases Gerry Mulligan’s incredible talent as a saxophonist and bandleader. Originally composed by James F. Hanley and Ballard MacDonald in 1917, the song has been covered by countless jazz musicians over the years, but Mulligan’s version remains one of the most iconic. Released in 1962 as part of the album “Gerry Mulligan Concert Jazz Band at the Village Vanguard,” the song features a lively and energetic performance by Mulligan and his band, with each musician contributing to the vibrant and dynamic sound. Mulligan’s arrangement of the song is a perfect example of his unique approach to jazz music, blending different styles and influences into a cohesive and compelling musical experience. “Indiana (Back Home Again in Indiana)” is a true classic that exemplifies the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
9. Come Sunday
“Come Sunday” is a beautiful and moving jazz spiritual that showcases Gerry Mulligan’s skill as a saxophonist and arranger. Originally composed by Duke Ellington in 1942 as part of his “Black, Brown and Beige” suite, the song has been covered by countless jazz musicians over the years, but Mulligan’s version remains one of the most iconic. Released in 1963 as part of the album “Night Lights,” the song features a slow and soulful performance by Mulligan, with his signature baritone saxophone adding a unique depth and richness to the melody. Mulligan’s arrangement of the song is a testament to his ability to blend different styles and influences into a cohesive and emotionally resonant musical experience. “Come Sunday” is a timeless classic that remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time.
10. Capricious
“Capricious” is a dynamic and upbeat jazz tune that highlights Gerry Mulligan’s incredible musical talent and innovative approach to jazz composition. Originally released in 1957 as part of the album “What Is There To Say?” the song features a lively rhythm section, intricate piano lines, and, of course, Mulligan’s signature baritone saxophone sound. With its fast-paced melody and complex harmonies, “Capricious” is a prime example of Mulligan’s ability to seamlessly blend different styles of jazz into a cohesive and compelling musical experience. Mulligan’s improvisational skills are also on full display in this track, as he effortlessly weaves in and out of the melody, adding his own unique flavor to the already rich musical tapestry. “Capricious” is a dynamic and energetic track that perfectly captures the joy and energy of jazz music, a testament to the enduring legacy of Gerry Mulligan as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of his time.