Miles Davis: The Definitive Biography
Tags: #music #jazz #biography #history #culture #race #innovation
Authors: Ian Carr
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Overview
This book explores the life, music, and legacy of Miles Davis, one of the most innovative and influential figures in 20th-century music. I trace his journey from his childhood in East St. Louis to his rise as a bebop prodigy in New York City, his groundbreaking collaborations with Gil Evans, and his constant reinventions that pushed the boundaries of jazz. I analyze his key recordings, dissect his musical style, and examine the social and racial context that shaped his artistic vision. I also explore his complex personality, his struggles with addiction, and his relationships with fellow musicians. I wrote this book for music lovers, jazz aficionados, and anyone interested in the creative process and the impact of a truly original artist. Miles Davis’s relentless pursuit of new sounds and new ways of making music continues to resonate with contemporary audiences, and his impact on music is still unfolding. His fearless experimentation with electronic instruments, fusion of genres, and mastery of space and silence paved the way for generations of musicians. His story is a testament to the transformative power of art and the enduring legacy of a true innovator.
Book Outline
1. Miles Dewey Davis III
This chapter delves into Miles Davis’s childhood and early musical influences, highlighting the impact of his upbringing in a racially charged environment and his exposure to both black and Western musical traditions.
Key concept: Miles’s mother emphatically dissuaded him from pursuing music professionally, believing that the only opportunities for a black musician at the time were limited to playing in disreputable venues. This reflects the constrained social and racial context that shaped early black musical experiences.
2. Bird Land
Miles hones his skills playing in local clubs and jam sessions in St. Louis, forming a significant mentorship with trumpeter Clark Terry, who introduces him to the vibrant jazz scene and provides valuable guidance.
Key concept: Clark Terry describes how he met Miles, initially dismissing him because he was preoccupied with the numerous pretty girls present. This anecdote reveals how chance encounters and first impressions often shape future collaborations and mentorships in the unpredictable world of jazz.
3. The Birth of the Cool
Miles arrives in New York, navigating between the formal musical world of Juilliard and the cutting-edge bebop scene on 52nd Street. His friendship with Charlie Parker exposes him to the dynamic world of bebop and its key innovators.
Key concept: Miles dropped out of the prestigious Juilliard School of Music, recognizing that it offered him little of real value compared to the dynamic world of bebop unfolding on 52nd Street. This decision signifies a crucial step towards embracing the new and rejecting the traditional, a recurring theme in his career.
4. Cold Turkey
Miles’s early career is marked by successes and setbacks, including his first recording session, his struggles with heroin addiction, and his move to Los Angeles, where he plays with Charlie Parker and experiences the challenges of the music profession.
Key concept: Despite his growing success, Miles struggled with heroin addiction, leading to periods of unemployment, personal turmoil, and erratic behavior. This dark period highlights the precarious nature of the jazz lifestyle and the vulnerability of artists operating outside mainstream society.
5. The First Great Quintet
Miles kicks his heroin habit and begins to refine his musical identity, recording several sessions with different groups and exploring a sparer style that moves away from bebop conventions.
Key concept: Miles’s development in 1954 mirrored his progress in 1947; both years were marked by a shift towards a more personal and refined trumpet style, and a growing understanding of his role as a bandleader. However, unlike 1947, Miles had to rely on irregular gigs and recording sessions to sustain this progress, highlighting the importance of a regular working group for artistic development.
6. Miles Ahead
Miles’s career gains momentum as he signs with Columbia Records and collaborates with Gil Evans on the groundbreaking orchestral album "Miles Ahead". The success of this project elevates his profile and pushes him to explore new musical directions.
Key concept: Gil Evans observes that Miles’s leadership stemmed from his ‘definite confidence in what he likes’, a quality that allowed him to forge his own path and resist the pressures of trends and expectations. This self-assuredness became a defining characteristic of his persona and musical vision.
7. The First Great Sextet
Miles forms his first great sextet, featuring John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderley, and their dynamic interplay shapes the band’s sound. He continues to experiment with different musical approaches, collaborating with Michel Legrand on an orchestral jazz album.
Key concept: Cannonball Adderley notes how Miles’s musical style shifted from ‘very hard to a softer approach’ with the addition of Bill Evans to the group. This signifies a crucial shift in the band’s aesthetic, highlighting the impact of individual musicians on the overall sound and direction of the music.
8. Porgy and Bess
Miles collaborates again with Gil Evans on a unique interpretation of Gershwin’s "Porgy and Bess", adapting the opera’s vocal score into music for orchestra and showcasing his masterful use of the flugelhorn and muted trumpet.
Key concept: Miles admits that "Porgy and Bess was the hardest record I ever made," highlighting the challenges of adapting operatic material to a jazz setting and his commitment to pushing musical boundaries. The album also showcases his growing interest in exploring his ethnic roots through collaboration with Gil Evans.
9. Is It Jazz?
Miles records "Kind of Blue", a landmark album that explores modal jazz and features some of his most influential and lyrical improvisations. He also embraces a wider range of musical influences, showing appreciation for artists like Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday.
Key concept: Miles insists that musicians should be ‘ready to play what you know and above what you know’, highlighting the importance of adaptability and openness to unexpected musical events. This philosophy reflects his own approach to improvisation and his belief in constantly pushing boundaries.
10. After Coltrane
Coltrane’s departure marks a turning point for Miles, who struggles to find a suitable replacement and grapples with the challenges of maintaining a stable band. He continues to tour internationally, achieving immense popularity and recognition, but also faces persistent racial discrimination.
Key concept: Coltrane’s departure from the sextet left a significant void for Miles, who had come to rely on the saxophonist’s ‘sheets of sound’ as a counterpoint to his own sparse style. This highlights the importance of collaboration and the dynamic interplay between musicians in shaping Miles’s music.
11. In and Out of the Doldrums
Miles grapples with personal struggles and professional setbacks, including drug addiction, financial difficulties, and strained relationships. He records several albums for Prestige, showcasing his evolving musical style and collaborations with musicians like Sonny Rollins and Jackie McLean.
Key concept: Miles describes how he used to ‘take the $30 for the transcribing, go uptown, and get high’, illustrating the exploitative nature of the music business and the struggles of musicians battling addiction. This period of personal turmoil and artistic stagnation reflects the challenges faced by many black artists trying to navigate a racist and exploitative music industry.
12. Miles in the Sky
Miles’s experimentation with electric instruments, including guitar, electric piano, and electric bass, marks a significant shift in his sound and direction. He seeks to find a balance between the traditional and the modern, exploring the potential of new sonic textures.
Key concept: Miles embraced the use of the electric piano, believing that its sound, unlike the acoustic piano, could be effectively blended with bass lines and other instruments. This highlights his forward-looking approach to instrumentation and his willingness to embrace new technologies in service of his musical vision.
13. Play What’s Not There!
Miles emphasizes the importance of ‘playing what’s not there’, encouraging his musicians to embrace spontaneity, explore unconventional rhythms, and break free from traditional harmonic structures. His music becomes increasingly abstract and experimental.
Key concept: Miles’s directive to ‘play what’s not there’ embodies his approach to improvisation, encouraging musicians to move beyond their comfort zones and preconceived ideas. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of spontaneity, experimentation, and embracing the unknown in jazz.
14. Miles Runs the Voodoo Down
Miles experiments with the incorporation of rock elements into his music, pushing his band towards a funkier and more aggressive sound. He recognizes the potential of rock’s rhythmic drive and its appeal to a younger audience, while maintaining a critical distance from its perceived limitations.
Key concept: Miles describes rock musicians as ‘not having done much yet’, recognizing the simplicity of their music compared to the complexities of jazz. However, he acknowledges the power and appeal of rock, predicting that it wouldn’t fade away because, ‘like jazz, it’s folk music’.
15. Jazz into Rock Will Go
Miles’s popularity with rock audiences grows as he shares bills with prominent rock artists, but he faces criticism from both jazz purists and the black press for ‘selling out’. He continues to explore new sonic territories, pushing the boundaries of jazz further with his increasingly abstract and electronically enhanced music.
Key concept: Leonard Feather observes that rock’s inclusion in jazz festivals has ‘radically changed’ the audience, with ‘music per se has become gradually less relevant year by year’ as the spectacle takes precedence. This highlights the impact of rock music on the cultural landscape and the challenges jazz faced in maintaining its relevance in a rapidly changing world.
16. Live-Evil
Miles assembles a new band featuring younger musicians who are deeply committed to his musical vision. Their intensely dynamic live performances showcase his evolving approach to improvisation, incorporating elements of rock, funk, and free jazz.
Key concept: Miles: ‘There is no greater love than to love the music. The rest of the music has got to come to that.’ This emphasizes the centrality of music in his life and artistic vision, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his art above all else.
17. Manhattan Jungle Symphony
Miles’s music becomes increasingly complex and challenging, with long, continuous improvisations and a focus on rhythmic interplay. He directs his band with hand signals and utilizes electronic effects to create a dense and disorienting soundscape.
Key concept: One reviewer describes Miles’s music as a ‘Manhattan jungle symphony’, capturing the raw energy, rhythmic complexity, and improvisational freedom of his sound. This period marks a significant departure from his earlier work, with a greater emphasis on collective improvisation and a blurring of boundaries between genres.
18. The Silent Years, 1976–1980
During his period of silence and seclusion, Miles battles physical ailments and personal demons, ultimately finding solace in painting and rediscovering his passion for music. He begins to plan his comeback, seeking to reconnect with his audience and explore new sonic possibilities.
Key concept: John McLaughlin observes: ‘… the one thread that ties it all together is the stubborn, insinuating drama of his trumpet, a healing blast, steamy yet icy, with which he continues to crest fashion, fame, and the illusory geometry of a stable backbeat.’ This succinctly captures the essence of Miles’s enduring appeal and his impact on the musical landscape.
19. A Tentative New Beginning
Miles embarks on a tentative comeback, assembling a new band of younger musicians and exploring a more commercial sound. He grapples with the challenges of regaining his physical and musical strength, and his recordings from this period reflect a sense of exploration and rediscovery.
Key concept: Miles embraces the concept of ‘being a beginner again’, recognizing the need to shed preconceived notions and approach music with a fresh perspective. This philosophy reflects a lifelong commitment to artistic growth and a willingness to constantly reinvent himself.
20. Crisis and Rebirth
Miles’s comeback gains momentum as he triumphs at a legendary Carnegie Hall concert, showcasing his remarkable trumpet playing and his ability to lead both small and large ensembles. He continues to tour extensively, but also faces challenges with addiction and strained relationships.
Key concept: Miles: ‘… Few jazz performances have touched the heights of that evening. It was jazz at its finest.’ This self-assessment of his performance at Carnegie Hall reveals his immense pride in his artistry and his ability to captivate audiences with his music.
21. Honours, Insults and Changes
Miles navigates a changing musical landscape, expressing dissatisfaction with both the contemporary jazz scene and the emerging avant-garde movement. He struggles to find a new direction for his music, exploring different ensemble sounds and experimenting with electronic instrumentation.
Key concept: Miles: ‘They go for anything ridiculous like that.’ This dismissive comment about the avant-garde movement highlights his unwavering belief in the importance of musicality and communication, and his rejection of trends that prioritize novelty over substance.
22. Tutu
Miles embraces the electric keyboard as a central element of his sound, using it to create colorful textures and interplay with bass lines. He continues to experiment with structure and instrumentation, recording albums like "On the Corner" which fuse jazz with funk, rock, and world music influences.
Key concept: Miles: ‘The piano is over. It’s an old-fashioned instrument. I don’t want to hear it any more. It belongs to Beethoven. It’s not a contemporary instrument.’ This provocative statement illustrates his rejection of traditional jazz conventions and his embrace of new sonic possibilities, further distancing himself from the acoustic jazz of his past.
23. Amandla
Miles pushes his musical explorations further, focusing on extended improvisations, complex polyrhythms, and a more collective approach to music-making. He incorporates elements of world music and funk, creating a unique sonic blend that continues to challenge and inspire musicians.
Key concept: One reviewer, having only heard the music on record, assumed that the band’s complex and shifting rhythmic patterns were the result of studio editing. This highlights the innovative and technically demanding nature of Miles’s music, which often pushed the boundaries of what was possible in live performance.
24. The Final Chapter
Miles experiences a creative resurgence in his final years, recording groundbreaking albums like "Tutu" and "Amandla". His music continues to evolve, incorporating elements of funk, rock, and world music while maintaining its core essence. He tours extensively and receives numerous awards and accolades, cementing his status as a global icon.
Key concept: Keith Jarrett: ‘… I think Miles was the strongest jazz presence that many people will ever see in their lifetimes … He was still there. You can hear that he was capable of doing that if he wanted to … When Miles was playing, just before he died, you can hear the man’s consciousness behind his sound; that’s the message of jazz. That’s the history of jazz.’ This encapsulates Miles’s enduring influence and the profound impact of his artistry, which transcended musical styles and eras.
Essential Questions
1. How did Miles Davis’s music evolve throughout his career, and what drove his constant pursuit of new sounds?
Miles Davis’s musical journey was one of constant evolution, always seeking new sounds and new ways of making music. His initial immersion in the world of bebop, his collaboration with Gil Evans on orchestral jazz, his pioneering work in modal jazz, and his later forays into jazz-rock fusion all pushed the boundaries of the genre. His constant pursuit of new sounds was driven by a deep inner need to avoid repeating himself and to create music that reflected the times he lived in. This approach led to a unique musical legacy that continues to inspire and influence musicians today.
2. How did Miles Davis’s approach to bandleading and collaboration shape his music and contribute to his success?
Throughout his career, Miles Davis consistently championed young, unknown talent, providing them with a platform to develop their skills and contribute to his musical vision. He recognized the importance of collaboration and the dynamic interplay between musicians, understanding that a band is more than the sum of its parts. His ability to inspire and direct his musicians, often through nonverbal communication and a deep understanding of their strengths, was a key factor in the success of his various bands.
3. How did Miles Davis’s collaboration with Gil Evans shape his musical direction and contribute to his legacy?
Miles Davis’s relationship with Gil Evans was a unique and profoundly fruitful partnership. Evans’s musical wisdom and knowledge of orchestration, combined with Davis’s intuitive understanding of improvisation and ability to communicate emotionally through his trumpet, resulted in a series of groundbreaking orchestral jazz albums that set new standards for the genre. Their shared vision and deep mutual respect made their collaborations truly symbiotic, each bringing out the best in the other.
4. How did racial prejudice and social injustice shape Miles Davis’s life and music?
Despite his international fame and critical acclaim, Miles Davis faced persistent racial prejudice throughout his career, from his early experiences in segregated St. Louis to his encounters with police brutality in New York City. His refusal to compromise his artistic vision or pander to white audiences made him a controversial figure, but also a symbol of black pride and resilience. His experiences with racial injustice deeply informed his music and his persona, contributing to his image as a ‘rebel’ and an ‘outsider’.
Key Takeaways
1. Embrace Change and Innovation Without Losing Your Core Identity
Davis consistently sought to stay ahead of the curve, integrating new musical trends and technologies while retaining his distinctive sound and artistic vision. This adaptability and forward-thinking approach ensured his relevance across multiple decades and made him a pioneer in various jazz movements.
Practical Application:
In technology product design, embrace emerging trends while retaining core values. Just as Davis integrated rock elements into jazz without compromising his artistic integrity, AI engineers can incorporate cutting-edge technologies while upholding ethical principles and human-centered design.
2. The Power of Collaboration and Mentorship
Miles Davis’s success as a bandleader stemmed from his ability to attract and nurture young talent, providing a platform for musicians to develop their skills and contribute to his musical vision. He fostered an environment of creative freedom and mutual respect, empowering his musicians to co-create and contribute their unique voices to the music.
Practical Application:
In leading AI teams, prioritize open communication, foster a culture of mutual respect, and provide space for individual expression. Empower team members to contribute their unique skills and perspectives, encouraging collaboration and fostering a sense of collective ownership in the project.
3. The Impact of Social and Racial Context on Artistic Vision
Miles Davis’s life and music were deeply intertwined with the racial and social context of his time. His experiences with discrimination and prejudice, as well as his commitment to black pride and empowerment, shaped his artistic vision and resonated with audiences worldwide.
Practical Application:
In developing AI products, consider the ethical and social implications of the technology. Just as Davis’s music reflected the racial injustices of his time, AI engineers should be mindful of potential biases and strive to create technologies that promote fairness and equality.
Suggested Deep Dive
Chapter: Chapter 9: Is It Jazz?
This chapter offers a fascinating glimpse into Davis’s evolving musical philosophy and his engagement with a wider range of influences, including classical music, blues, and early jazz. It also provides valuable insights into his creative process and his critical views on other musicians, shedding light on his artistic criteria and his unwavering commitment to pushing musical boundaries.
Memorable Quotes
Chapter 1. 7
‘I just got on to the trumpet and studied and played.’
Chapter 1. 11
‘If I hadn’t met that prejudice, I probably wouldn’t have had as much drive in my work.’
Chapter 2. 23
‘I spent my first week in New York and my first month’s allowance looking for Charlie Parker.’
Chapter 3. 46
‘I always had a curiosity about trying new things in music. A new sound, another way to do something.’
Chapter 5. 75
‘The thing to judge in any jazz artist is does the man project, and does he have ideas.’
Comparative Analysis
This biography of Miles Davis stands out for its detailed analysis of his musical evolution, going beyond mere biographical details to delve into the nuances of his musical innovations and the forces that shaped his artistic decisions. Unlike other biographies that focus primarily on Davis’s personal life and controversies, this book places his music at the forefront, tracing his constant quest for new sounds and his impact on the development of jazz. It distinguishes itself by exploring the dynamic interplay between Davis and his collaborators, highlighting the crucial role of musicians like Gil Evans, Charlie Parker, and John Coltrane in shaping his musical vision. This biography agrees with other scholars on the significance of Davis’s contribution to 20th-century music, but offers a more nuanced and in-depth exploration of his musical journey, making it an invaluable resource for understanding his legacy.
Reflection
Ian Carr’s biography of Miles Davis offers a compelling and nuanced portrait of a complex and enigmatic artist. The book’s strength lies in its detailed analysis of Davis’s musical evolution, highlighting the key collaborations and innovations that shaped his unique sound and artistic vision. However, while the book provides insights into Davis’s personal life and struggles, it sometimes relies on his own subjective accounts and the perspectives of his close associates, leaving room for a more critical examination of his controversial behavior and treatment of others. Despite its occasional reliance on hagiography, the book is undeniably valuable for its comprehensive account of Davis’s musical journey and the broader context of the jazz world he inhabited. It successfully captures the spirit of a musical genius who relentlessly pushed boundaries and defied expectations, leaving an indelible mark on 20th-century music. The lasting impact of Davis’s artistry and the questions he raised about the nature of improvisation, collaboration, and the relationship between artist and audience continue to resonate with contemporary musicians and listeners alike.
Flashcards
What is Miles Ahead?
The collaborative album featuring intricate orchestral arrangements by Gil Evans and Davis’s expressive trumpet playing on the flugelhorn.
What is Kind of Blue?
The album that marked Davis’s exploration of modal jazz, featuring a more spacious and introspective sound with minimal chord changes.
What is Bitches Brew?
The groundbreaking album that fused jazz with rock and electronic elements, featuring a dense and psychedelic soundscape.
What is Tutu?
The album that marked Davis’s return to recording after a five-year hiatus, featuring a blend of funk, rock, and world music influences.
What is In A Silent Way?
The innovative album that incorporated elements of ambient music and featured extensive use of studio editing and looping techniques.
Who is Marcus Miller?
The young bassist who later became a renowned producer and collaborator, playing a crucial role in shaping the sound of Davis’s later albums.
Who is Gil Evans?
The gifted arranger and composer who had a profound impact on Davis’s music, particularly through their orchestral collaborations.
Who is John Coltrane?
The innovative saxophonist who played with Davis in the 1950s, pushing the boundaries of jazz improvisation with his ‘sheets of sound’.