Woody Shaw was a trailblazing American jazz trumpeter, bandleader, and composer, renowned for his rich tone, innovative technique, and imaginative compositions that extended the boundaries of modal and progressive jazz during the late 20th century. Born on December 24, 1944, in Laurinburg, North Carolina, he was raised in Newark, New Jersey, where he was exposed to a vibrant jazz scene. Shaw's career took off in the 1960s, after he replaced Lee Morgan in Art Blakey's band and later worked with Horace Silver. His audacious playing style, characterized by complex chord changes and an aggressive approach to improvisation, cemented his status as a leading figure among modern jazz trumpeters.

Over the years, Shaw's discography grew to encompass a multitude of live and studio recordings that showcased his technical mastery and compositional prowess. Notable among his recent releases are the remastered albums "Time Is Right" and "From Moment to Moment" from 2023, which allowed new generations to experience the clarity and power of his playing. His live recordings, such as "The Tour, Vol. 1 & 2," recorded live in Europe in the mid-1970s, and "Woody Shaw Live, Vol. 4," captured at the Keystone Korner, reflect the dynamism and intensity of his performances. Compilations like "The Essential Woody Shaw / The Columbia Years" offer a curated look into his influential work during his tenure with Columbia Records. Shaw's legacy endures through his contributions to jazz and remains a vital influence on emerging musicians. He passed away on May 10, 1989, but the re-releases and enduring appreciation for his music attest to his lasting impact on the jazz world.

Genres

Contemporary Post-bop

Jazz Saxophone

Jazz Trumpet

Straight-ahead Jazz

Latest Release

Time Is Right (2023 Remastered)

Woody Shaw

Ep - 4 Tracks - Released July 25, 2023