With over a century to work its way into permanent global consciousness, the meaning of the word "jazz" is as illusive and varied as the number of striated genres and stylistic blends that have developed over the decades. Fusion, Ragtime, Bebop, Swing, are but a few of the voluminous more options out there today, regardless, it seems the origin of the word "jazz" is just as controversial in its roots in the early 1900's.

A fascinating article (scholarly and longish but worth the read) by Daniel Cassidy explores this in "How the Irish Invented Jazz," exploring Irish roots, but also paying tribute to the crucial African origin, with an added interesting look at Baseball, High Society, and Hot Springs. According to the author, it all seems to figure in. Decide for yourself...

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Posted by Ted at December 20, 2006 6:08 AM