Composed in 1952 by the legendary pianist Thelonious Monk, often in collaboration with drummer Denzil Best, Bemsha Swing is one of the most enigmatic and celebrated pieces in the modern jazz repertoire. The word "Bemsha" is a playful Monk invention, said to be a whimsical distortion of "Bimshire," a nickname for Barbados. The tune captures Monk's unique blend of angular melodies, odd harmonies, and infectious, offbeat swing.

Bemsha Swing is instantly recognizable for its 16-bar structure, syncopated rhythm, and quirky, modal melody punctuated by percussive accents. Its Afro-Caribbean undertones, created by Monk's signature use of whole-tone runs and unexpected harmonic turns, make it both a delight and a challenge for improvisers. Over the years, it has become a cornerstone for modern jazz musicians exploring Monk’s idiosyncratic style.

Fun fact: Monk frequently reinterpreted his own piece, recording it in various arrangements—solo piano, quintet, and with iconic musicians like John Coltrane and Art Blakey.

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Bemsha Swing - T. Monk

Ricardo Farão