Mr. Magic is a song composed and performed by American jazz saxophonist Grover Washington Jr. Released in 1974 as part of his album "Mr. Magic," the song quickly gained popularity and became one of Washington's signature tunes. The track showcases Washington's smooth and soulful style of playing, fusing elements of jazz, funk, and R&B. At the time of its release, "Mr.
That degree of success poses a challenge for Washington each time he steps onto a stage: How does he keep his audience happy as it clamors for his big numbers, such as “Mister Magic,” “Winelight” and “Let It Flow,” yet still work in the new material that keeps him fresh?
s two-decade career as a jazz-R instrumentalist boasts consistent worldwide touring and close to two dozen solo albums, one of which, 1980 s Winelight, has sold more than 2 million copies. , The One Man Band knows how to stay in my lane in my Jam Session , let s call my lane Contemporary Soul Instrumental, Smoothed Out, on an R B tip, with Old School Feel, appeal, to it.
At the time of its release, "Mr. Magic" received significant airplay on jazz and R&B radio stations, propelling Washington to newfound fame and establishing him as a prominent figure in contemporary jazz. The song's catchy melody, infectious groove, and memorable saxophone lines contributed to its success.
His Saxophones ‘Sing’ a Story : ‘Mister Magic’ Grover Washington Jr. Will Bring Sense of Spontaneity to the Coach House
Saxophonist Grover Washington Jr.’s two-decade career as a jazz-R&B; instrumentalist boasts consistent worldwide touring and close to two dozen solo albums, one of which, 1980’s “Winelight,” has sold more than 2 million copies.
That degree of success poses a challenge for Washington each time he steps onto a stage: How does he keep his audience happy as it clamors for his big numbers, such as “Mister Magic,” “Winelight” and “Let It Flow,” yet still work in the new material that keeps him fresh?
“It’s a major problem, trying to be musically representative to a 20-year career in the span of an hour and 15 minutes,” Washington said by phone from Fresno, one stop on a tour that brings him to the Coach House on Thursday and the Hollywood Bowl on Sunday.
AdvertisementSo to maintain a sense of spontaneity in each show, he dictates selections by the way his audience responds to different numbers, as well as playing the tunes he and his band mates want to cover.
“That way we usually come up with an across-the-board, well-rounded overview,” said Washington, 49, a Buffalo, N.Y., native who now resides in Philadelphia.
Some tunes are virtual requirements, though.
Take his theme song, “Mister Magic.” The tune was written by percussionist-producer Ralph MacDonald and became the title track on his first big-selling album, recorded in 1974.
“We can’t get out the door unless we play it,” Washington said with a laugh.
That album established Washington as a major-league contemporary-jazz artist. “Winelight,” from 1980, made him a jazz-pop star, as he began to play more arena-size venues. The album won a Grammy for best jazz/fusion album, and the track “Just the Two of Us,” featuring singer Bill Withers, picked up a Grammy the same year as best R & B song and hit No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
“Winelight” built a following for Washington that has remained steadfast. Still, the album has proven difficult to surpass, both in terms of sales and audience expectations, Washington said.
“It’s a wonderful thing to be known for one album,” he said. “And it’s also a curse because folks don’t look at the rest of your work in another musical direction asbeing equally as good. ‘Winelight’ sort of overshadows the things you try to accomplish, where you start by following your heart.”
AdvertisementWashington goes on, nonetheless.
His latest collection, 1992’s “Next Exit,” is a diverse mix of styles. The title track is a funk number, “Only for You” is a bubbling Latin tune, “Check Out Grover” includes a rap by Man Slaughter, and Nancy Wilson and Four Tops lead singer Levi Stubbs turn in cameo vocals on other tracks.
Washington sounds solid on everything from deeply moving ballads and hard-hit funk numbers to thoughtful lines he weaves around a singer to a bubbling Latin number such as “Only for You.”
The saxophonist said that no matter the tune, he strives to play a strong melody and to deliver a story.
“To be connected with a song, you have to call on whatever you have inside of you to play the melody and make it believable and sincere,” he said. “In this respect, less is more. You want to make the melody breathe, give it substance.”
Washington started his career as a tenor saxophonist, made his first solo album, 1971’s “Inner City Blues,” on alto and soon added soprano saxophone to his arsenal. He described his instruments in terms of the human voice.
“I feel the tenor is like the male voice, the alto is a multifaceted female voice, and the soprano is either one, it just depends on the tune,” he said.
The saxophonist said that working on a singing sound on all three horns is still his No. 1 priority.
“I try to get into that frame of mind,” he said. “The only thing I have to talk to the audience with, to communicate with, is my horn, so I listen to a lot of vocalists for phrasing. Sometimes I memorize lyrics so I can sing them through my horn.”
Recently, Washington did a show at the White House, where scores of jazz notables were being honored. He played a duet with Herbie Hancock.
“It was great,” he said, “seeing all those great players like Clark Terry, Illinois Jacquet, who was one of my heroes, and Dorothy Donegan.”
And how did President Clinton sound on saxophone?
“He sounds good,” Washington said. “He is letting the world see another dimension of him, and that is his music. He has a feel for it.”
* Grover Washington Jr. plays Thursday at 7 and 9:30 p.m., at the Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. $28.50. (714) 496-8930. Washington also headlines Sunday at 6 p.m. at JVC Jazz at the Bowl, Hollywood Bowl, 2301 Highland Ave., Hollywood. $7.50-$13. (213) 850-2000.
"Mr. Magic" has a distinctive opening with a funky bassline that sets the stage for Washington's saxophone to take the spotlight. The smooth, melodic playing style showcased in this song became characteristic of Washington's music, appealing to a wide audience beyond traditional jazz listeners. His ability to infuse jazz with catchy, accessible elements made him a crossover success and helped popularize jazz fusion. The success of "Mr. Magic" led to Grover Washington Jr. becoming a prominent figure in the jazz genre throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He continued to release chart-topping albums and singles, cementing his status as one of the most influential jazz musicians of his time. Washington's unique blend of jazz, funk, and R&B helped bridge the gap between different genres and attract new listeners to the world of jazz. In addition to his musical talents, Washington was known for his charismatic stage presence and his ability to connect with audiences through his performances. His smooth tone and ability to convey emotion through his saxophone playing further endeared him to fans around the world. Although Washington passed away in 1999, his music and legacy continue to live on. "Mr. Magic" remains one of his most beloved songs, representing a defining moment in his career and the jazz genre as a whole. Whether you are a fan of jazz, funk, or R&B, "Mr. Magic" is a song that demonstrates the enduring appeal and impact of Grover Washington Jr.'s music..
Reviews for "Unveiling the Secrets of Grover Washington Jr.'s "Mr. Magic": A Masterpiece of Musical Brilliance"
1. John - 2 out of 5 stars
I was really disappointed with "Mr magic" by Grover Washington Jr. I had heard so many great things about this album, but I found it to be quite underwhelming. The songs lacked depth and creativity, and it felt like they all blended together into one monotonous sound. I was hoping for more variety and memorable melodies, but unfortunately, this album didn't deliver. Overall, I just couldn't connect with the music, and I wouldn't recommend it to others who are looking for something more exciting and engaging.
2. Sarah - 3 out of 5 stars
While I can appreciate the talent and skill of Grover Washington Jr., "Mr magic" didn't quite hit the mark for me. The songs were well-performed, but I found them to be too predictable and formulaic. It felt like I had heard similar tunes and arrangements before, and nothing really stood out as unique or innovative. Additionally, the album lacked a certain energy or emotion that I look for in music. It felt a bit flat and unexciting, leaving me somewhat indifferent towards it. Overall, "Mr magic" is a decent album, but it didn't leave a lasting impression on me.
3. David - 2 out of 5 stars
I have to admit, I was quite bored listening to "Mr magic" by Grover Washington Jr. The songs seemed to drag on and lacked any real excitement or intrigue. There were no memorable hooks or melodies that caught my attention, and it all felt too repetitive. It just wasn't my cup of tea. I can see how some people might enjoy this album, especially if they are big fans of smooth jazz, but for me, it was a forgettable experience. I wouldn't rush to listen to it again anytime soon.