smoove & turrell

The Smooth & Turrell Journey: Where Chill Meets Groove

Smooth & Turrell, a term often used to describe the music genre that blends smooth jazz with the rhythmic energy of turntablism, isn’t a single artist or band. It’s a sound, a vibe, a fusion born from the intersection of two seemingly disparate worlds.

The Smooth Side: Jazz, with its roots in the African American community, has long been a source of cool, sophisticated melodies. Think Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and the iconic smooth jazz artists of the 80s and 90s like Kenny G and Grover Washington Jr. These artists mastered the art of creating a mellow, sophisticated soundscape, often incorporating elements of funk and R&B.

The Turrell Side: Turntablism, on the other hand, is a more recent phenomenon, emerging with the rise of hip-hop. DJs like Grandmaster Flash and Kool Herc used turntables as instruments, manipulating records to create beats, scratches, and innovative soundscapes. Their focus was on rhythmic complexity, pushing boundaries and challenging the traditional role of the DJ.

The Fusion Begins: In the 90s, artists like DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince began incorporating elements of jazz into their hip-hop productions. This led to a growing interest in exploring the crossover potential of these two genres. Jazz musicians, particularly saxophonists, began collaborating with DJs and producers, experimenting with the possibilities of blending smooth melodies with rhythmic textures.

Funny Facts:

• Kenny G’s Saxophone: Did you know that Kenny G actually plays a gold-plated saxophone? It’s not just for show, it’s said to produce a warmer sound.
• The “Smooth Jazz Police”: There’s a running joke in the music world about a mythical force called “the Smooth Jazz Police”. Apparently, they’re responsible for ensuring that any music containing elements of smooth jazz adheres to the strict “smoothness” requirements. (Of course, this is all in good fun!)
• DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince’s Controversial Grammy: The duo’s 1988 album, He’s The DJ, I’m The Rapper, won a Grammy for “Best Rap Performance.” But they were also nominated for Best Jazz Performance for the same album! Imagine the conversation at the Grammy ceremony backstage…

The Legacy of Smooth & Turrell: The smooth & turrell sound has continued to evolve, influencing contemporary artists and inspiring new generations of musicians. While it may not have the same mainstream popularity as it did in the 90s, it remains a unique and vibrant niche, proving that the fusion of seemingly disparate genres can lead to truly creative and unexpected results.