10 Songs You Should Know Before You Join In Jam Sessions

Atlanta-based jazz trumpeter, big band leader Joe Gransden provides 10 songs that anyone wanting to join in “jam” sessions should know.

Bob Bakert, Editor: I asked Atlanta-based jazz trumpeter, big band leader Joe Gransden what 10 songs that anyone wanting to join in the “jam” sessions should know.  And by know, I mean play the head, have the chords memorized and be able to solo over those chords.

For reference, Joe has led more high-quality, well-known, and respected jazz jams than anyone I know.  They are always very well attended by many of Atlanta’s elite jazz musicians.

Band leader Joe Gransden has performed worldwide and released 16 CDs under his own name. Renowned first for the hard bop approach of his trumpet, Gransden’s singing voice has been compared to that of Chet Baker and Frank Sinatra

The plan is to not only give you a list but to every month publish lessons specifically on these tunes from some of the best guitar teachers and some guest instructors who do not normally teach.

Here is his list:

1. All The Things You Are 
2. Bye, Bye Blackbird 
3. Blue Bossa 
4. Autumn Leaves
5. Blues (Billys Bounce, now is the time, straight no chaser)

6. There Will Never Be Another You
7. Cherokee
8. Solar 
9. Moanin’
10. Green Dolphin Street