CLICK HERE to access EXCLUSIVE CONTENT in my ‘BEYOND TABS’ guitar course |
|
| Song Background | |
| April in Paris was composed by Vernon Duke with lyrics by E.Y Harburg in 1932 for the broadway musical Walk a Little Faster. it has been suggested that it was Dorothy Parker who gave Vernon Duke the idea for the song after expressing a desire to be in Paris in April. While it was Count Basie in 1955 who brought the tune to the forefront for Jazz musicians, the song has been covered by many artists I’ve included some of my recomendations below. | |
| Guitar Chord Progression Analysis | |
| More than often chord progressions begin on the tonic chord of the scale. In April in Paris however the first chord is the V chord resolving to I. This kicks the progression off with a lovely feeling of tension which lasts through the first 4 measures. There’s great tension and release going on throughout the tune. Before attempting the chords I would definitely advice learning the melody first as this will inform the chord shapes you choose for the chord progression. | |
| Suggested Listening | |
| Joe Pass Album – Unforgettable Great version played on nylon strung guitar. Listen all the variations Joe Pass puts into this performance. Out of time , in time, chord substitutions, fast runs. These are all areas that I cover in my online guitar course. |
Billie Holiday
Album – The Complete Billie Holiday As always, Billie Holiday adds her very own stamp on the precedings |
| Michel Legrand
Album – Jazz in Paris I just had to include this version by Paris born Michel Legrand, as for me it evokes the feeling of the city. |
Count Basie Album – April In Paris Just listen to this version swing |
| Which artist’s version of April In Paris would you recommend? Tell me about it and I can feature it here | |