Soul jazz is a groove-oriented subgenre of jazz that emerged in the late 1950s and found its stride in the 1960s, combining elements of hard bop, blues, gospel, and rhythm and blues. It leans heavily on rich, vibrant melodies, improvisation, and features repetitive, catchy phrases, often played by organ, saxophone, or guitar. Characterized by its earthy, accessible sound, soul jazz artists focus on creating a deep groove and an emotional expression that resonates with the soul. The rhythm section typically lays down a swinging backbeat or a shuffling groove, drawing audiences into an interactive, almost danceable experience. It played a crucial role in making jazz more popular and inclusive, straddling the line between jazz sophistication and the raw expressiveness of soul, illustrated by the warm, soulful playing of musicians like Maceo Parker and the passionate vocal stylings of Nina Simone.

With A Song in My Heart

Denny Zeitlin

Album - 11 Tracks - Released June 6, 2025