Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939

This official illustrated history serves as a fittingly stylish and comprehensive celebration of Blue Note, arguably the most influential and important brand in the history of jazz. More than just a label releasing extraordinary music, Blue Note has cultivated a powerful image as an arbiter of cool, a reputation inextricably linked to the superb photography of co-founder Francis Wolff and the iconic cover designs of Reid Miles.

This lavishly illustrated publication draws upon the very best photographs, album covers, and rare ephemera from the Blue Note archives, including previously unpublished material, to commemorate the label's momentous contribution not only to jazz itself but also to the worlds of art and design, and the broader music business.

The book expertly traces the evolution of jazz as documented by Blue Note's releases, from the energetic boogie-woogie and swing of the 1930s, through the revolutionary sounds of bebop, the groove-laden explorations of funk and fusion, right up to the eclectic and diverse mix of jazz that Blue Note continues to release today.

Beyond the musical journey, the narrative also weaves in a complex social history, connecting the persecution of Jews in Nazi Germany, which prompted the label's founding, to the significant developments in music and technology that shaped the latter half of the 20th century. This broader context adds a rich layer of understanding to Blue Note's enduring legacy.

Spanning over eight decades of truly extraordinary music, this book powerfully demonstrates how Blue Note has consistently stayed true to its founders' unwavering commitment to "Uncompromising Expression." It's a visually stunning and intellectually engaging tribute to a label that has not only documented but actively shaped the course of jazz history, making it an essential addition to the collection of any serious music enthusiast or design aficionado.