The title Jazz Money holds layers of significance. My introduction to jazz was through music with those “nice chords,” sounds deeply rooted in gospel—the foundation of so much of modern music. Gospel, especially within my church home, Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Atlanta, where I grew up under Pastor Timothy Flemming Sr., is the root that grounds me. My entire family, on both my mother’s and father’s sides, has called this church home, and it’s here that I learned jazz has a complex history—even its name was a label imposed by outsiders. Pastor Flemming taught us that “jazz” may have originally derived from “jackass music,” a term used by white Dixiecrats to belittle Black music.

But in New Orleans, where jazz was born, the term took on a new and proud meaning. Jazz became a way of life, a powerful expression of freedom and resilience. The vibrant brass bands, soulful second lines, and rhythms of New Orleans transformed jazz into something extraordinary—a celebration of spirit and survival. Still today, the origins of the word “jazz” remain controversial and unclear. It was passed down through oral traditions in places like Haiti, the first Black republic, where the term “jazz” even meant “band” in Creole. However, the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of the term speaks to the resilience of Black people who have redefined it over time.

Growing up, I knew this music as “Dixieland,” and it’s unsettling that this limited view was the only version I knew for a long time. This points to a larger issue within the U.S. education system, which has often failed to teach the true depth of Black history and culture. As a lover of history, I remember school offering only a sanitized version—a nod during Black History Month that barely scratched the surface. Imagine how different our lives and perspectives would be if we grew up with a true, inclusive understanding of history, one that gives all of us pride, connection, and clarity.

Before genres were divided into marketable categories, this music was called Race Music—the raw sound of Black life that later inspired everything from jazz to hip-hop. Today, musicians are often pushed to stay within a single “scene,” but legends like Terri Lyne Carrington and Quincy Jones have shown us that Black music can’t be boxed in. It transcends categories, drawing strength from a long history of resilience and creativity.

The “money” in Jazz Money speaks not only to material wealth but to the wealth of culture, history, and spirit I carry forward. This project celebrates both abundance and the experience of being without, echoing the biblical warning that “money is the root of all evil.” It’s a tribute to the richness of Black history in sound—the struggles, the triumphs, and the boundless freedom that jazz embodies. This is Jazz Money, a journey through rhythm, resilience, and a heritage too powerful to be contained.

The Roots of Jazz and Its Controversial Origins

The history of jazz is a complex and multifaceted journey. While the genre is widely recognized as a cultural contribution of Black America, the story of its name and its origins is still debated to this day. As mentioned, “jazz” was initially a derogatory term used by white Dixiecrats, which reflects the racist undertones of the time. Over the years, however, jazz evolved into a symbol of resistance, joy, and expression for the Black community. Today, jazz is celebrated globally, though the true origins of its name—sometimes traced back to oral traditions from Haiti and other parts of the African diaspora—remain a subject of discussion and controversy.

Gospel: The Foundation of All Music

Gospel music is the root of all music, and its influence is felt in nearly every genre, from jazz to R&B, rock, and beyond. In my church home, Mount Carmel Baptist Church, I was taught the significance of this music not just as a spiritual expression, but as the very foundation of modern musical forms. As gospel music made its way through the South, it carried with it the stories of the enslaved, the oppressed, and those who fought for liberation. This rich tradition, passed down from one generation to the next, continues to inspire musicians and is at the heart of my own sound.

Samba: From Africa to Brazil

Samba, like jazz, is another genre with deep African roots. Born out of the cultural crossroads of Brazil, samba reflects the resilience of the Afro-Brazilian community and carries with it the legacy of the Atlantic slave trade. As enslaved Africans were brought to Brazil, they brought their music, rhythms, and traditions with them. Samba is a testament to the endurance and creativity of these communities in the face of systemic oppression.

If the Afro-diaspora were to unite, the world would be fundamentally different. The music, culture, and history of African-descended people across the globe are tied together by common struggles and triumphs. The stories embedded in samba, jazz, and gospel are part of a shared history of survival, resistance, and the continuous fight for liberation.

My Top Samba Artists Right Now

Elizeth Cardoso

Elizeth Cardoso is one of Brazil’s most beloved voices, though her genre is often classified as MPB (Música Popular Brasileira). MPB, a mix of samba, bossa nova, and other Brazilian styles, is one of the country’s most iconic musical movements. Elizeth’s voice is a beautiful testament to the power of Brazilian music, full of emotion and authenticity. Here’s one of her most famous performances: Elizeth Cardoso - “A Voz do Samba”.

Arlindo Cruz

Arlindo Cruz is a powerhouse in the world of samba, known for his incredible contributions to the genre, especially in samba de raiz (root samba). His music is a deep, rich blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the spirit of samba’s origin while introducing fresh rhythms and melodies. Check out one of his classic performances: Arlindo Cruz - “Deixa a Vida Me Levar”.

Turma Do Pagode

Turma Do Pagode represents the modern face of samba. Known for their engaging and rhythmic style, they bring a youthful energy to the genre, blending traditional samba rhythms with contemporary elements. Their music speaks to the young Brazilian generation while maintaining the rich history of samba’s past. Watch them perform: Turma Do Pagode - “Me Apaixonei Pela Pessoa Errada”.

Conclusion: Honoring the Legacy

Jazz Money is not just an album—it’s a journey through history, culture, and identity. It’s a celebration of Black resilience and creativity, drawing from the deep roots of gospel, jazz, samba, and the broader African diaspora. Each song is a tribute to the struggles and triumphs of my ancestors, and a testament to how their music continues to shape the world today.

Through Jazz Money, I honor the history and culture that shaped me. But I also believe that this music has the power to shape the future. If we unite around the rich cultural heritage of Black music, we can create something even greater than the sum of its parts—a collective force that transcends genres, boundaries, and history.

I invite you to listen, to learn, and to experience the journey. Let the music guide you as we continue to celebrate the richness of Black culture, past and present.

Written by Zacchae’us Paul

Date: November 2024