So What; An Exploration of Modal Jazz and Unconventional Harmony

“So What,” the iconic opening track from Miles Davis’ groundbreaking 1959 album Kind of Blue, stands as a monumental achievement in jazz history, redefining the genre with its minimalist approach to melody and emphasis on modal improvisation. This deceptively simple piece eschews traditional chord progressions in favor of stationary harmonic structures, allowing musicians unparalleled freedom to explore melodic ideas within the defined modal framework.

The Birth of Modal Jazz:

Emerging in the late 1950s, modal jazz represented a departure from bebop’s complex chord changes and improvisational density. Pioneered by composers like George Russell and Miles Davis, this style embraced a simpler harmonic landscape, focusing instead on creating evocative atmospheres through extended scales and modes.

Instead of relying on constantly shifting chords, modal jazz pieces typically centered around a single scale or mode, providing a framework for improvisation without the constraints of traditional chord progressions. This allowed musicians to explore melodic ideas more freely, resulting in solos that were often characterized by their spaciousness, lyrical quality, and improvisational depth.

Kind of Blue: A Modal Jazz Masterpiece:

Recorded in 1959, Kind of Blue remains one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time, captivating listeners with its tranquil atmosphere and groundbreaking approach to improvisation. Davis assembled a stellar quintet for the sessions, featuring John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Cannonball Adderley on alto saxophone, Bill Evans on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Jimmy Cobb on drums.

The album’s five tracks are characterized by their minimalist melodies and expansive improvisational sections. “So What,” the album opener, immediately establishes the modal framework for the rest of the recording. The piece is built upon a two-chord structure – D Dorian and Eb Dorian – providing a spacious canvas for the soloists to explore.

Deconstructing “So What”:

• Melody: “So What” features an incredibly simple melody, repeated throughout the piece, emphasizing the modal concept.

This repetitive structure provides a grounding point for the improvisations, allowing the soloists to explore different melodic and rhythmic ideas within the defined harmonic context.

• Harmony: The harmony of “So What” is equally minimalist, consisting of two Dorian modes – D Dorian and Eb Dorian. These modes provide a framework for improvisation without the traditional constraints of chord changes.

This unconventional harmonic approach allows for greater freedom of expression, leading to extended solos that explore the full range of possibilities within each mode.

• Improvisation: The improvisations on “So What” are characterized by their spaciousness and lyrical quality. Coltrane’s solo is particularly notable for its haunting melody and intense emotional delivery.

Historical Context: Miles Davis and the Evolution of Jazz:

Miles Davis was a towering figure in 20th-century music, constantly pushing the boundaries of jazz with his innovative approach to composition and improvisation. From his early bebop days with Charlie Parker to his groundbreaking explorations of modal jazz and fusion, Davis’ music consistently challenged conventions and inspired generations of musicians.

His collaboration with arranger Gil Evans resulted in a series of lush orchestral recordings that expanded the sonic possibilities of jazz.

“Kind of Blue” solidified Davis’ reputation as a visionary leader and marked a turning point in the evolution of jazz. The album’s simplicity, elegance, and emotional depth resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, cementing its place as a timeless masterpiece.

Enduring Legacy:

“So What” continues to inspire musicians across genres, its minimalist structure and focus on improvisation serving as a template for countless compositions. The piece has been covered by artists ranging from classical ensembles to rock bands, highlighting its enduring appeal and versatility.

Beyond its musical significance, “So What” stands as a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring influence of jazz on contemporary music. Its minimalist structure and emphasis on improvisation continue to inspire musicians across genres, showcasing the timeless allure of modal jazz and its ability to transcend generations.