Laufey revives jazz for gen Z
Jazz music most often are played in coffee shops to match the calm and cozy environment. We might catch ourselves bobbing our heads to this type of music at a café occasionally. Not many would think much of the lyrics in jazz songs, but the instrumental melodies are often what hooks us. As a particular genre often rise to fame for each generation, thanks to Laufey, she revives jazz for gen Z.
Laufey and her music
Half Icelandic and half Chinese, Laufey grew up traveling back and forth between Reykjavík, Iceland and Washington, DC. Hearing her mother play the violin inspired her to play the piano and the cello early on.
Her mother being a classical violist sparked her love for music, but it was her father’s collection of jazz albums that took her to a deeper level. Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday albums along with composers like Ravel and Chopin inspires the 24-year-old singer.
She describes her music as an in between of jazz and classical music. Laufey dove into the music headfirst, captivated by the lush arrangements and dreamy vocals. Which in her teenage years, made people turn their heads for her mesmerizing style that belied her young age.
After receiving a prestigious Presidential Scholarship to the Berklee College of Music, Laufey moved to Boston. Where she began writing her own songs blending sophisticated jazz melodies and slow-burning R&B grooves.
Unable to tour because of the pandemic, she performed a mix of originals and vintage classics on Instagram and TikTok. And within a year, she fond herself racking millions of likes, topping the Icelandic radio charts with her debut single, “Street By Street,” and earning support from Billie Eilish and Willow Smith.
Jazz music
We might think jazz is such an outdated genre that only elders listen to, however there’s a rich history behind the genre that proves it never left our ears.
Jazz music, originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in African American communities in the United States, particularly in New Orleans. Characterized by its improvisational nature, syncopated rhythms, and a strong emphasis on individual expression and creativity.
The genre incorporates a variety of musical elements, including African rhythms, blues, ragtime, and European harmonic structures. It often features complex melodies and chord progressions, with instrumental solos serving as a prominent aspect of the music. Jazz can be performed in various ensemble formats. They can be small groups (such as trios or quartets) and larger ensembles like big bands.
Over time, jazz has evolved and branched out into different subgenres and styles, including swing, bebop, cool jazz, modal jazz, fusion, and more. Each style has its own distinctive characteristics and influential artists.
Jazz has had a significant impact on the development of popular music throughout the 20th century and continues to be an influential genre today. It has influenced other styles such as rock, funk, and hip-hop, and remains an important form of artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Bringing jazz to gen Z
As we now enter the post pandemic era, Laufey now spreads jazz all over the world with her tour. Having such a wide range of audiences, from young to old appreciating the music she put out.
In her Asian leg of the tour, her first stop was the Philippines last May 30. This was one of Laufey’s biggest audience she has ever performed for on her tour. This came as such a great surprise for the Icelandic singer as it was her first time in the country as well.
Over the 2,000 people that attend her sold out show in Manila, most of them were young people. The 24-year-old singer profusely thanked the Filipino crowd for the support they gave her and her music which continues to push her to create more.
With the simple, melodic, and emotional jazz songs about love Laufey produces, it’s no wonder everyone loves her and her music. Many young people appreciate these simple melodies to contrast and escape the hustle and bustle of our stressful life.
