Morning Drive with Frankie Valli: A Journey Through Time
Good morning, fellow music lovers and educators! It's David here, sharing a bit of my morning routine that combines the joy of family, the brilliance of musical legends, and a deep dive into the history of music that has shaped my career.
Today started like any other: a cup of coffee in hand, a quick glance over my notes, and the usual hustle of getting the kids ready for school. As we piled into the car, I decided to introduce my children to the timeless tunes of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. For those of you who only know Måneskin's rendition of "Beggin'," it's worth noting that this song was originally performed by Frankie Valli and his iconic group.
As "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" played in the background, I couldn't help but feel a surge of nostalgia. This music is more than just notes and rhythms; it's a piece of history, a reminder of my own journey through the halls of UKZN Howard College back in 2007. During those formative years, we had to master around 200 jazz standards just to be considered amateurs. I recall the grueling exams where we had to transpose these standards on the spot into all 12 keys—a task that tested not just our skill, but our passion and perseverance.
Frankie Valli's music doesn't just resonate with the pop culture of his time; it extends into the jazz standards I studied. His later jazz albums are a testament to his versatility and mastery. Listening to these tracks, I'm transported back to my junior years, immersed in the world of jazz under the guidance of mentors who pushed us to our limits. Today, as I delve deeper into research under the great Dr. Nduduzo Makathini, I find myself constantly grateful for those early challenges and the rich musical heritage they opened up for me.
Reflecting on Valli's transition from the pop hits of "Grease" to his sophisticated jazz recordings, I am reminded that true greatness in music often involves a journey through various styles and eras. Unlike the transient nature of some modern music icons like Jay-Z or Drake, the timeless quality of Valli’s work continues to inspire and be repurposed across generations.
As I drop my kids off at school, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for artists like Frankie Valli, whose music transcends time and genre, and for the educators who instilled in me a love for such timeless artistry.
So, here's to the morning drives filled with classic tunes, to the relentless pursuit of musical excellence, and to the legends who paved the way. Thank you, Frankie, for the music.
Until next time, keep the music alive in your hearts and homes.
Warm regards,
David the Pianist
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