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Jazz insists on the unique expression of individual character in a way no other music does.
We hear some of the early work of Miles Davis, and trace his rapid development into one of the most influential American artists of his time. Wynton Marsalis guides us through the development of fusion, which joined jazz music with elements of rock and funk. The music of Miles Davis, Return to Forever, Herbie Hancock, Tony Williams' Lifetime, Mahavishnu Orchestra, and Weather Report help illustrate the rhythms and electronic sounds that made fusion popular, with discussion from Pat Metheny, Wayne Shorter, and more. No America, No Jazz Wynton Marsalis demonstrates jazz as a particularly American expression, evoking this country's sense of spirit, possibility, and freedom. He links jazz music to the ideas of writers Albert Murray and Ralph Ellison, the musical insight of Charlie Haden, Gerry Mulligan, and Pat Metheny, and such American treasures as basketball, Brer Rabbit, stand-up comedy, and the railroad.