African Waltz

Cannonball Adderley's 1961 masterpiece, African Waltz, is a seminal work in the jazz canon. This iconic album, released on the Original Jazz Classics label, showcases Adderley's incredible talent as a saxophonist, backed by a magnificent orchestra conducted by the esteemed Ernie Wilkins. Featuring a diverse range of tracks, including the hit single 'African Waltz', as well as 'Something Different', 'West Coast Blues', and 'Smoke Gets In Your Eyes', this 35-minute album is a testament to Adderley's skill and artistry.

With its unique blend of hard bop, jazz, bebop, cool jazz, and jazz blues, African Waltz is an album that will captivate and inspire. The tracklist, which also includes 'The Uptown', 'Stockholm Sweetnin'', 'Blue Brass Groove', 'Kelly Blue', 'Letter From Home', 'I'll Close My Eyes', and 'This Here', is a masterclass in musicianship, with each song showcasing Adderley's incredible range and expression.

Originally released on 28 February 1961, African Waltz has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved and influential album in the jazz genre. Cannonball Adderley's soulful and expressive playing, combined with the lush orchestral arrangements, makes for a truly unforgettable listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of jazz or just discovering the genre, African Waltz is an essential album that is sure to delight and impress.

Cannonball Adderley, born Julian Edwin Adderley, was a titan of the jazz world, renowned for his powerful and soulful alto saxophone playing. Emerging in the 1950s, Adderley became a key figure in the hard bop movement, known for his exhilarating performances and innovative approach to jazz. His career was marked by collaborations with some of the genre's greatest names, including Miles Davis, with whom he recorded the classic album "Somethin' Else." Adderley's distinctive sound and charismatic stage presence made him a beloved figure in jazz, and his fusion of jazz and soul music resulted in crossover hits like "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy." Throughout his career, Adderley's music was characterized by its exuberance and melodic depth, making him one of the most influential and popular jazz musicians of his era. His legacy endures through his extensive discography, which spans from the mid-1950s to the mid-1970s, and includes a diverse range of styles and formats.