smooth jazz

USAGE SUMMARY

"smooth jazz" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a style of jazz music that has a mellow, relaxed sound. You can use it when talking about music or describing a specific type of jazz. For example: - "I love listening to smooth jazz while I'm cooking dinner. It helps me relax and unwind after a long day." - "The hotel lobby had a sophisticated atmosphere, with a live band playing smooth jazz in the corner." - "The new album by this artist combines elements of R&B and smooth jazz to create a unique sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

No smooth jazz.

The New York Times - Books

Enter Smooth Jazz.

The New York Times - Sports

Smooth jazz played in the background.

The New Yorker

Poor smooth jazz, besieged by haters.

The New York Times - Arts

So no, I've never considered myself a smooth jazz artist".

The New York Times - Arts

Have you seen the Wikipedia entry on smooth jazz lately?

The New York Times - Arts

Being righteous about smooth jazz is much more difficult.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"Christmas makes me sad/And I'm being bad," Ms. Lynne sings, over questionable smooth-jazz saxophone.

The New York Times - Arts

It's almost like by this point, this Smooth Jazz Cruise ensemble is a family, isn't it.

Huffington Post

And this Smooth Jazz Cruise in particular seems almost like a cradle.

Huffington Post

Listen to smooth jazz/jazz.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "smooth jazz", consider your audience's familiarity with the genre. Providing context or examples of artists can help ensure clarity and avoid potential misinterpretations.

Common error

While "smooth jazz" shares characteristics with other jazz subgenres, be careful not to use the term interchangeably with broader categories like 'contemporary jazz' or 'fusion jazz'. Smooth jazz has specific features that set it apart.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smooth jazz" functions primarily as a noun, identifying a specific genre of music. It is used to categorize musical works, performances, and radio formats, as evidenced by Ludwig examples citing "smooth jazz radio" and "smooth jazz artists".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

9%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smooth jazz" is a well-established noun phrase used to identify a distinct subgenre of jazz music. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, especially within News & Media contexts. While some debate its merits within the broader jazz community, it remains a recognizable and widely used term. When writing about "smooth jazz", consider the audience's familiarity and avoid overgeneralization by distinguishing its unique elements. Alternatives like "contemporary jazz" or "easy listening jazz" can offer nuanced variations depending on the intended meaning. As exemplified in the SEARCH_DATA, the expression is used both neutrally and critically.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contemporary jazz

Broader term encompassing various modern jazz styles, including smooth jazz.

instrumental R&B

Focuses on the R&B influences often present in smooth jazz.

easy listening jazz

Highlights the relaxed and accessible nature of the music.

mellow jazz

Emphasizes the calm and soothing qualities of the music.

fusion jazz

Indicates a blend of jazz with other genres, a characteristic often found in smooth jazz.

quiet storm jazz

Draws a parallel with the 'quiet storm' format, emphasizing a romantic and mellow vibe.

urban contemporary jazz

Highlights the urban and modern elements of the genre.

lite jazz

A simpler and more accessible alternative.

commercial jazz

Highlights the commercially oriented nature of the genre.

background jazz

Emphasizes its use as ambient or unobtrusive music.

FAQs

What are some characteristics of "smooth jazz"?

Smooth jazz typically blends elements of jazz with R&B, pop, and funk, often featuring melodic improvisation and a relaxed tempo. It often emphasizes a polished and commercially accessible sound.

What's the difference between "smooth jazz" and traditional jazz?

Traditional jazz often prioritizes improvisation and complex harmonies, while smooth jazz emphasizes melody and a more accessible structure. Smooth jazz also incorporates elements from other genres, whereas traditional jazz often focuses on its core elements.

What can I say instead of "smooth jazz"?

You can use alternatives like "contemporary jazz", "instrumental R&B", or "easy listening jazz", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "smooth jazz" considered a legitimate form of jazz by all musicians?

The reception of smooth jazz within the broader jazz community is varied. Some musicians appreciate its accessibility and commercial appeal, while others view it as a diluted or less authentic form of jazz.