Thelonius Monk Without a Hat: RARE EARLY FOOTAGE

Man Without a Hat: Thelonious Monk – 1961

MASTERPIECE: ROUND MIDNIGHT

“‘Round Midnight” is a 1944 jazz standard by jazz musician Thelonious Monk. It is thought that Monk originally composed it sometime between 1940 and 1941, however Harry Colomby claims that Monk may have written an early version around 1936 (at the age of 19) with the title “Grand Finale”.

According to Colomby, Cootie Williams wanted to record and publish the composition, and he offered Monk $300 as an advance. As part of the deal, Monk gave Williams credit for collaboration.

A jazz standard of such high calibre, Round Midnight has been interpreted and performed by many artists. UK Singer Elkie Brooks released an album of the same title in 1993 featuring her own unique vocal interpretation of this often instrumental song.

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~ by Dudegotchops on October 16, 2007.