The Jazz Real Book

“Half Nelson” and Nelson Boyd
Miles Davis’ “Half Nelson,” recorded on August 14, 1947, is a classic bebop example and a tribute to bassist Nelson Boyd (1928–1985), who played on the original session. Based on the chord changes of Tadd Dameron’s “Lady Bird,” the composition features a 32-bar AABA form, angular melodic lines, syncopation, and sophisticated harmonic movement. The recording includes Charlie Parker on tenor saxophone, John Lewis on piano, Boyd on bass, and Max Roach on drums. Davis delivers some of his finest early bebop playing, while Parker’s unusual tenor sound and Roach’s energetic breaks stand out. Born in Camden, New Jersey, Boyd worked with such jazz giants as Dizzy Gillespie, Coleman Hawkins, and Fats Navarro. Although often overlooked, Boyd contributed significantly to bebop’s development and also participated in Davis’s historic Birth of the Cool sessions.

Miles Davis 1947
Miles Davis 1951-Live Version 
The Jazz Real Book Playlist Vol. 2

Cyrus Chestnut Interview
Pianist Cyrus Chestnut has spent more than four decades establishing himself as one of jazz’s most distinctive and soulful voices. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Chestnut developed his musical foundation through gospel, classical music, and the blues before studying at Berklee College of Music. His remarkable career includes collaborations with Betty Carter, Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, Donald Harrison, and Jon Hendricks, along with an extensive catalog of recordings as a leader. Known for his extraordinary technique, swinging rhythms, and deep gospel influences, Chestnut continues to captivate audiences worldwide. On Saturday, November 28, 2026, he will receive the prestigious Giants of Jazz Award at the South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC), recognizing his outstanding contributions to jazz. Despite his accomplishments, Chestnut remains remarkably humble, viewing himself as a lifelong student of music. For him, the greatest reward has always been the opportunity to inspire others through his art.

“Gypsy In My Soul” and Mildred Bailey (141) 
Written in 1937 by Clay Boland and Moe Jaffe, “Gypsy in My Soul” became a popular jazz standard, celebrated for its memorable melody and swinging character. The lyrics explore themes of freedom, restlessness, and the desire for adventure. One of its finest interpretations came from vocalist Mildred Bailey, a pioneering swing-era singer known for her effortless phrasing and warm, expressive voice. Recorded in December 1945, Bailey's version features an outstanding small ensemble, including vibraphonist Red Norvo, whose fluid solo beautifully complements her vocals. The performance captures Bailey's remarkable ability to swing with subtlety, sophistication, and relaxed musical freedom.
Mildred Bailey 
Oscar Peterson Trio 
The Jazz Real Book Playlist Vol. 2

Jon Faddis Interview
One of jazz history's most extraordinary trumpeters, Jon Faddis has dazzled audiences for more than five decades with his remarkable range, technical brilliance, and deep understanding of bebop. Born in Oakland, California, in 1953, Faddis became a teenage prodigy and a protégé of the legendary Dizzy Gillespie. His career includes performances with Lionel Hampton, Charles Mingus, and the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra. Beyond his solo career, Faddis has directed the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, Dizzy Gillespie Alumni All-Stars, and Chicago Jazz Ensemble.
On November 12, 2026, Faddis headlines Miles @100 with Jon Faddis & Friends at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, celebrating Miles Davis's centennial and his landmark recordings Birth of the Cool and Kind of Blue. Joining him are Steve Turre, Gary Smulyan, Erena Terakubo, and other distinguished musicians for an evening honoring one of jazz's greatest innovators.

“Guilty” and  Ray Noble (140) 
“Guilty,” written in 1931 by Richard A. Whiting and Harry Akst, with lyrics by Gus Kahn, is a romantic standard that uses criminal guilt as a metaphor for falling deeply in love. The song features a classic 32-bar AABA form, a memorable melody, and sophisticated harmonies that incorporate augmented dominants, diminished chords, and subtle key changes. Ray Noble (1903–1978), the celebrated British composer, arranger, and bandleader, helped define this era's elegant orchestral sound. Known for his sophisticated arrangements and collaborations with vocalist Al Bowlly, Noble also composed enduring standards including “The Very Thought of You” and “Cherokee.” Although Bowlly originally recorded “Guilty” with Roy Fox's orchestra, the song reflects the romantic sophistication associated with Noble's musical legacy.
Ray Noble and Al Bowlly 
Billie Holiday 
The Jazz Real Book Podcast Playlist