Phil Woods passed away this week, so I thought it would be fitting to take a break from the Maceo transcriptions and share one of his most iconic solos.
While he was a jazz legend, I chose this pop recording since it is so famous. When was the last time you heard a saxophone solo in song on the top 10 chart for pop/rock? The 70s were a different time…
This solo deserves the praise that it gets. Phil didn’t dumb down his playing for a pop audience, or resort to gimmicks. He just played a simple, beautiful solo that has some great jazz lines in it, and subtle use of dissonance, tension, and harmony.
I had the pleasure of seeing Phil Woods live only once. It was around 1990, shortly after his phenomenal appearance on David Sanborn’s amazing “Night Music” show. I saw him at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago. What a player.
RIP Phil – you’ll be missed!
Phil Woods - Just the Way You Are
- Artist: Phil Woods
- Album: The Stranger (Billy Joel – 1977)
- Track: Just the Way You Are
- Note: This is the longer version, the ‘album’ version fades out much sooner, shortening the sax solo
- Instrument: Alto Sax
Enjoy!
@SdartSax
Reblogged this on The Bis Key Chronicles and commented:
One of my many instructors, this is a touching tribute to Phil.
Interesting post, Jim. Nice tribute to this fellow Sax player.
This solo inspired me to pick up a sax again after 40 years. Thanks to your transcription, my goal is to play this for the love of my life.
Thanks
I’m glad it inspired you to play again. That’s what it’s all about!