Martin Denny
Martin Denny (April 10, 1911 ? March 2, 2005) was an American piano-player and composer best known as the father of exotica.
Remembering Martin Denny: A Musical Biography to Rival Any Other
When it comes to the world of exotica music, few names are as well-known as Martin Denny. This is an artist that was able to create a sound that was entirely unique and yet still managed to pull in a global audience. His music was perfect for those warm summer days spent lounging outside, or for those colder nights when you wanted to feel as though you were somewhere much warmer. There is something about Mr. Denny's work that just transports you, and if you're not familiar with it yet, then let's take a little walk through the life and work of this incredible musician.
Martin Denny wasn't born into music; in fact, his first passion was football. However, there was a music venue located next door to the bar that his father owned, and it wasn't long before he started to find himself checking out the music scene. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Denny joined the military, where he played clarinet in the Signal Corps orchestra. After the war ended, he moved to Los Angeles and began working with Don the Beachcomber, a bar with a Polynesian theme. He would end up creating the sound for their bar, which would become known as exotica. This new sound was a fusion of traditional Polynesian music with jazz, adding a little bit of Latin percussion to really make it pop.
While Denny's early work is considered to be a classic, there is no doubt that his breakthrough moment came in 1956 with Quiet Village. This was a song that took America by storm, hitting the top 5 and remaining one of the most iconic lovesongs of all time. However, even after that, Denny didn't stop pushing the boundaries of exotica. He infused his sound with influences from around the world and was unafraid to try new things.
When it comes to Denny's best songs, it's hard to pick just a few. Among his numerous hits, there are a few that continue to be standouts. Quiet Village is an obvious choice, but Jungle Drums, The Enchanted Sea, and Stone God all hold a special place in many listener's hearts. Denny's music will always be closely associated with that tropical feeling, and he managed to capture the essence of that in every song that he wrote.
As for concerts, one of the most famous Martin Denny performances took place in 1989 at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. This was part of a larger event that celebrated the 30th anniversary of the original Quiet Village recording. While Denny was quite sick at this time, he managed to give an incredible and unforgettable performance that reminds fans of the reason why his music is so enduring.
When it comes to critics, there's no doubt that Martin Denny's music was loved by the majority of those who heard it. Jack Tracy, who wrote the first book on exotica music, called Denny the father of exotica, while many other critics praised his jazz-infused sound and his ability to create something so uniquely his own.
Martin Denny was an incredible artist who helped to create a new sound in the music industry. His influence is still felt today, and those looking for a little bit of escapism could do much worse than putting on one of his albums. As a music lover, I can't recommend him highly enough. So whether it's your first time hearing his music or you're already a fan, it's time to sit back and enjoy the unforgettable sounds of Martin Denny.
Martin Denny was an incredible artist who helped to create a new sound in the music industry. His influence is still felt today, and those looking for a little bit of escapism could do much worse than putting on one of his albums. As a music lover, I can't recommend him highly enough. So whether it's your first time hearing his music or you're already a fan, it's time to sit back and enjoy the unforgettable sounds of Martin Denny.
Remembering Martin Denny: A Musical Biography to Rival Any Other
When it comes to the world of exotica music, few names are as well-known as Martin Denny. This is an artist that was able to create a sound that was entirely unique and yet still managed to pull in a global audience. His music was perfect for those warm summer days spent lounging outside, or for those colder nights when you wanted to feel as though you were somewhere much warmer. There is something about Mr. Denny's work that just transports you, and if you're not familiar with it yet, then let's take a little walk through the life and work of this incredible musician.
Martin Denny wasn't born into music; in fact, his first passion was football. However, there was a music venue located next door to the bar that his father owned, and it wasn't long before he started to find himself checking out the music scene. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Denny joined the military, where he played clarinet in the Signal Corps orchestra. After the war ended, he moved to Los Angeles and began working with Don the Beachcomber, a bar with a Polynesian theme. He would end up creating the sound for their bar, which would become known as exotica. This new sound was a fusion of traditional Polynesian music with jazz, adding a little bit of Latin percussion to really make it pop.
While Denny's early work is considered to be a classic, there is no doubt that his breakthrough moment came in 1956 with Quiet Village. This was a song that took America by storm, hitting the top 5 and remaining one of the most iconic lovesongs of all time. However, even after that, Denny didn't stop pushing the boundaries of exotica. He infused his sound with influences from around the world and was unafraid to try new things.
When it comes to Denny's best songs, it's hard to pick just a few. Among his numerous hits, there are a few that continue to be standouts. Quiet Village is an obvious choice, but Jungle Drums, The Enchanted Sea, and Stone God all hold a special place in many listener's hearts. Denny's music will always be closely associated with that tropical feeling, and he managed to capture the essence of that in every song that he wrote.
As for concerts, one of the most famous Martin Denny performances took place in 1989 at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. This was part of a larger event that celebrated the 30th anniversary of the original Quiet Village recording. While Denny was quite sick at this time, he managed to give an incredible and unforgettable performance that reminds fans of the reason why his music is so enduring.
When it comes to critics, there's no doubt that Martin Denny's music was loved by the majority of those who heard it. Jack Tracy, who wrote the first book on exotica music, called Denny the father of exotica, while many other critics praised his jazz-infused sound and his ability to create something so uniquely his own.
Martin Denny was an incredible artist who helped to create a new sound in the music industry. His influence is still felt today, and those looking for a little bit of escapism could do much worse than putting on one of his albums. As a music lover, I can't recommend him highly enough. So whether it's your first time hearing his music or you're already a fan, it's time to sit back and enjoy the unforgettable sounds of Martin Denny.
Martin Denny was an incredible artist who helped to create a new sound in the music industry. His influence is still felt today, and those looking for a little bit of escapism could do much worse than putting on one of his albums. As a music lover, I can't recommend him highly enough. So whether it's your first time hearing his music or you're already a fan, it's time to sit back and enjoy the unforgettable sounds of Martin Denny.
LISTEN THE BEST MARTIN DENNY SONGS IN STREAMING
2022-11-01
The Exotic Musical Biography of Martin Denny
When it comes to exploring different genres of music, we often find ourselves diving into the world of exotic tunes. One artist who really stands out in this musical genre is Martin Denny. He was an American pianist and composer who became known for his unique blend of easy-listening jazz and world music. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at his life, his most famous albums, and his most iconic songs. So, let's get started.
Early Life:
Martin Denny was born in New York in 1911. He grew up learning the piano, and at the age of 12, he played as a professional musician with his uncle's band. After serving in the army during World War II, he became involved in the music scene in Los Angeles. He worked with a variety of big bands before beginning his own career as a band leader in the early 50s.
Musical Style:
Denny's unique blend of jazz and world music came to be known as exotica music. In his songs, he incorporated instruments like vibraphones, bird calls, and non-Western percussion instruments like gongs and bamboo sticks. All of this, combined with his smooth piano playing, created a sound that was both intimate and otherworldly.
Most Famous Albums:
Denny's most famous album is Quiet Village, which was released in 1959. It reached number four on the charts and stayed there for almost a year. The title track from this album became his signature song, and he continued to play it in almost all of his concerts. Other notable albums include Exotica, Primitiva, and Afro-Desia.
Most Famous Songs:
As mentioned earlier, Quiet Village is Denny's most iconic song. It has been used in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials. Another classic track is Exotica, which has a mysterious and moody sound. Taboo, with its haunting melody played on vibraphone, is another example of Denny's unique musical style.
Influences:
Influences:
Denny's musical style was heavily influenced by his travels in the South Pacific. He fell in love with the rhythms and melodies of the islands and incorporated them into his music. He was also influenced by classical music and jazz, as well as the emerging rock and roll scene.
Martin Denny has left an indelible mark on the world of music with his unique blend of jazz and world music. His signature exotica sound has influenced many other musicians, and his music continues to be a favorite among listeners of all ages. So, the next time you're in the mood for something different, turn on some Martin Denny and let yourself be transported to a world of exotic sounds and rhythms.
Early Life:
Martin Denny was born in New York in 1911. He grew up learning the piano, and at the age of 12, he played as a professional musician with his uncle's band. After serving in the army during World War II, he became involved in the music scene in Los Angeles. He worked with a variety of big bands before beginning his own career as a band leader in the early 50s.
Musical Style:
Denny's unique blend of jazz and world music came to be known as exotica music. In his songs, he incorporated instruments like vibraphones, bird calls, and non-Western percussion instruments like gongs and bamboo sticks. All of this, combined with his smooth piano playing, created a sound that was both intimate and otherworldly.
Most Famous Albums:
Denny's most famous album is Quiet Village, which was released in 1959. It reached number four on the charts and stayed there for almost a year. The title track from this album became his signature song, and he continued to play it in almost all of his concerts. Other notable albums include Exotica, Primitiva, and Afro-Desia.
Most Famous Songs:
As mentioned earlier, Quiet Village is Denny's most iconic song. It has been used in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials. Another classic track is Exotica, which has a mysterious and moody sound. Taboo, with its haunting melody played on vibraphone, is another example of Denny's unique musical style.
Influences:
Influences:
Denny's musical style was heavily influenced by his travels in the South Pacific. He fell in love with the rhythms and melodies of the islands and incorporated them into his music. He was also influenced by classical music and jazz, as well as the emerging rock and roll scene.
Martin Denny has left an indelible mark on the world of music with his unique blend of jazz and world music. His signature exotica sound has influenced many other musicians, and his music continues to be a favorite among listeners of all ages. So, the next time you're in the mood for something different, turn on some Martin Denny and let yourself be transported to a world of exotic sounds and rhythms.
Tag: Martin Denny, musical biography, best songs, playlist
SONGS OF MARTIN DENNY - THE BEST SONGS OF THE ARTIST
1 - Quiet Village
2 - Stranger in Paradise
3 - The Enchanted Sea
4 - Hypnotique
5 - Jungle Madness
6 - Swamp Fire
7 - Return to Paradise
8 - Harlem Nocturne
9 - Exotic Night
10 - Misirlou
11 - Cubano Chant
12 - The Carioca
13 - Stone God
14 - Love Dance
15 - Fandango
16 - Manila
17 - Exotica
18 - Similau
19 - Amy's Theme
20 - Jungle Flower
21 - Lotus Land
22 - Miserlou
23 - Martinique
24 - Hong Kong Blues
25 - Busy Port
26 - Coronation
27 - Midnight Cowboy
28 - Waipo
29 - Tune From Rangoon
30 - Escales
31 - Sake Rock
32 - Caravan
33 - Song Of The Bayou
34 - When First I Love
35 - Ah Me Furi
36 - Bangkok Cockfight
37 - Stardust
38 - China Nights
39 - Forbidden Island
40 - Bacoa
41 - Cool
42 - Island Of Dreams
43 - The Donkey Serenade
44 - Llama Serenade
DISCOGRAPHY OF MARTIN DENNY
2021: Exotica! (remastered)
1969: Exotic Moog
1968: A Taste of India
1967: Hawaii
1966: Hawaiian Touch
1966: Martin Denny!
1964: A Taste Of Hits
1964: Latin Village
1963: Another Taste of Honey
1963: Another Taste Of Honey!
1962: A Taste of Honey
1961: Exotic Percussion
1961: Romantica
1959: Afro-Desia
1959: Exotica Vol. Iii
1959: The Enchanted Sea
1958: Hypnotíque
1958: Primitiva
1958: Exotica Volume Ii
1958: Forbidden Island
1956: Exotica