Maggy Simon Sings

Broadway shows always give me goosebumps as I listen to the performers pour their hearts and souls into every verse they sing. You get a real sense that these characters just couldn't express their feelings in any other way.  

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What are the best songs to kick off the summer? Well, that question can have a very subjective answer, as people like different types of music. However, I managed to compile a short list to share my favorite summer jams…

When thinking of the best jazz composer, there are plenty that comes to mind. However, one person has solidified his name in the annals of jazz history. Who could it be?? The answer: Duke Ellington! Not only was the Duke…

Nothing is quite as relaxing as going out for the night on a nice ride downtown with some smooth jazz playing through the speakers. Here are a few wonderful jazz songs to accompany you on your little road trip.  

Jazz has continued to evolve over the years as musicians innovate and make different sub-genres and sounds. From smooth cool jazz to swing and bebop, the rhythm, tone, and speed of the music has changed considerably. Jazz bands have also…

Some days you just feel blue. And on those days, jazz can help elevate that blue mood. Here are a few songs that are especially fun to listen to on a blue day. 

Nat…

Despite emerging in the late 19th century, jazz continues to innovate and evolve. In fact, jazz from the early 20th century was almost completely different than modern-day jazz and its varieties. And the city where this culturally rich and diverse…

The warmth of a nice fire during the cold winters is one of those wonderful quirks of the colder season. So while you’re tucked into your covers, why not relive summer with some nice jazz. Here are a few songs…

I love the holiday season for two reasons. First, it gives me an opportunity to celebrate fun times with friends and family. Second, the holiday season lets me sing all my favorite holiday songs. 

Thanks to Broadway musicals, we now…

Did you know many of today’s most successful Hollywood celebrities once ruled Broadway? I have great respect for these stars because I’ve been a Broadway singer myself for a long time. Here are some famous Hollywood stars that also enjoy…

I spent many years practicing jazz improvisation. However, not everyone is aware of the tips and tricks of this art.    

Did you ever notice that improvisation is already a part of your everyday life? Jazz improvisation is not much different…

The best Broadway musicals include a mix of classic musicals like Chicago and new favorites, like Wicked. For decades, Broadway hits have been charming theatre audiences with memorable performances and enchanting music scores.  

Here are my top picks of…

Are you ready to experience the magical musical once again? I certainly am! In fact, I can’t wait for my favorite musical of all time, Chicago, to return to Broadway on September 14 this year. It will also be…

Jazz is American-style music and is a combination of many styles, such as brass bands, ragtime, blues, and African music. It consists of "bent" tones and notes, which makes this genre an emotive one. Jazz is popular due to its…

Jazz is a genre that appeals to all age groups because it changes as each generation of artists modifies it with their own twist. While African Americans are pioneers of the genre, the genre combines both African rhythmic tunes and…

Set in sepia tone with a backdrop of great Kansas City, the Wizard of Oz has managed to depict cult status since its original release in 1939. Initially, what opened to a rather meager response turned out to be one…

Jazz music is therapeutic and soulful even though it has many varieties. For me, dancing to the rhythm and beautiful vocals feels exciting and relaxing at the same time. 

Moreover, if there was the best way to further explore jazz…

When we talk about jazz, the discussion stands incomplete if we don't give well-deserving credit to the amazing women who framed its history with their contributions. One such talented woman was Mary Lou Williams.

Born…

If you aren’t already familiar, The Four Seasons, an American band, rose to fame in the 1960s-70s. They are also known as Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, with Frankie Valli as the lead singer. 

Their popularity is so immense…

When it comes to jazz, improvisation is an integral part of the genre. Jazz is a type of music that demands a unique and considerable amount of skill. This is because most performances are improvised right on the very spot. 

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While jazz is a year-round music genre, listening to it on a chilly, winter night can be soothing and therapeutic. It can create that dreamy ambiance that makes you go swoon and groove at the same time. After all, good…

Jazz is imbued with all the riveting elements that music needs; melody, harmony, and rhythm. However, what distinguishes jazz from all the others is improvisation. Even though jazz music has a unique identity for itself and a substantiated position in…

To begin with, it was the African people who introduced this style of dance expression. Africa is…

As summer says goodbye and fall approaches, it not only calls for a bit of a lifestyle change but also a switch in the music taste. With Halloween and pumpkin-spiced food around the corner, you might as well just want…