The Jazz Real Book

“I Love You For Sentimental Reason” and Dean Martin (122)
“I Love You (For Sentimental Reasons)” is a classic American ballad written in 1945 by William “Pat” Best and Deek Watson, emerging at the close of World War II when audiences gravitated toward direct, emotionally sincere songs. First popularized by the Nat King Cole Trio in 1946, the version became definitive, reaching No. 1 on the R&B charts and crossing into the pop mainstream. The song’s strength lies in its simplicity—both lyrically and musically. Rather than relying on narrative complexity, it presents love as an honest, almost conversational confession, which gives it lasting appeal. 
Structurally, it follows a 32-bar AABA form typical of the Great American Songbook, with clear harmonic movement that invites interpretation. Its ballad tempo allows singers to explore phrasing, tone, and timing, making it a favorite for jazz vocalists. Later versions, including the legendary Dean Martin’s more relaxed, orchestral take, highlight how style and delivery can reshape the song’s emotional character while preserving its intimate core.
The Real Book Vol. 2 
Nat King Cole Trio 
Dean Martin

Eric Darius is a contemporary jazz saxophone master  whose career bridges strong musical roots with a clear connection to modern audiences. Born in 1982 he grew up in a deeply musical household, with a bassist father and a mother who sang and played piano. Early exposure to Caribbean influences tied to his Haitian and Jamaican heritage, along with artists like Stevie Wonder, Prince, and George Benson, helped shape his stylistic versatility. He discovered the saxophone at age nine after a powerful church performance, quickly committing himself to the instrument. By eleven, he was touring internationally with Sonny LaRosa’s America’s Youngest Jazz Band, including an appearance at the Montreux Jazz Festival. His debut album Night on the Town (2004) marked his arrival on the national scene. Since then, Darius has built a career defined by energetic performances, chart-topping hits, crossover appeal, and ongoing work as both a recording artist and educator.

Mark Turner is widely regarded as one of the most distinctive tenor saxophonists of his generation, known for his intricate harmonic language, strong rhythmic sense, and deeply introspective improvisational style. Emerging in the 1990s, Turner quickly established himself through collaborations with artists such as Kurt Rosenwinkel, Brad Mehldau, Billy Hart, and others, helping define a modern post-bop aesthetic rooted in tradition while still pushing forward. Turner has also been closely associated with ECM Records, where his work as both a leader and sideman reflects a refined and spacious sonic approach. His trio Fly, featuring drummer Jeff Ballard and bassist Larry Grenadier, released three records between 2004 and 2012, showcasing a collective, chordless trio concept built on texture, interaction, and dialogue. His new quartet record, Patternmaster, with trumpeter Jason Palmer, bassist Joe Martin, and drummer Jonathan Pinson, continues the modern vision heard on 2022’s Return from the Stars.

“For Heaven’s Sake” and Kenny Barron (121) 
“For Heaven’s Sake” is a 32-bar standard that reflects the postwar Great American Songbook tradition, balancing lyrical intimacy with subtle harmonic sophistication. Its melodic design is tightly organized, with recurring rhythmic figures and a descending contour that creates a strong sense of forward motion and resolution. The harmony moves fluidly through ii–V progressions and chromatic passing chords, offering a rich but logical framework for improvisation. These elements make the tune especially adaptable, allowing performers to shape it as either a ballad or a medium swing vehicle while preserving its emotional core.
Kenny Barron is one of the most lyrical pianists in modern jazz, known for his refined touch, harmonic depth, and effortless swing. His playing combines bebop fluency with impressionistic color, resulting in a style that feels both sophisticated and accessible. Whether accompanying or soloing, Barron maintains a clear melodic focus and dynamic sense of shape. His long career, including work with Stan Getz, highlights his consistency and musical sensitivity, while his compositions and teaching have further solidified his influence.
The Real Book Vol. 2
Billie Holiday 
Kenny Barron

John Beasley is a deeply rooted jazz pianist, arranger, and composer whose work balances tradition with forward-thinking creativity. Emerging in the 1980s, he built a reputation for harmonic sophistication, rhythmic flexibility, and an unwavering sense of swing, working with major artists including Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard, Sérgio Mendes, and Hubert Laws. His acclaimed MONK’estra project has become one of his defining achievements, earning wide recognition for its inventive reimaginings of Thelonious Monk’s music and contributing to his standing as a two-time Grammy winner and multi-time nominee. Beyond the bandstand, Beasley has served as musical director for American Idol and has contributed extensively to film and television scoring, including work with Thomas Newman. His latest release, Invisible Piano with the SWR Big Band, scheduled for May 8, further highlights his orchestral vision and reinforces his role as a vital voice connecting jazz history with contemporary expression.