Mike Stern – Jazz Guitar Solo on a Bb Blues

Mike Stern first came to widespread public attention when he joined Miles Davis in his ‘comeback’ band back in the early 1980s. He gained recognition for his unique blend of jazz and rock, captivating audiences with his energetic performances. His signature guitar style was featured prominently on the live album ‘We Want Miles’.

Stern’s skill as a burning bebop guitarist was only hinted at on the live album and was often more evident on recordings by other jazz artists.   

The following transcription excerpt is from a studio recording by bassist Harvie S. This track features not only Stern’s virtuosic guitar work but also masterful interplay between the musicians, showcasing their collective improvisational skills. ‘In A Different Light’ was released in 1990 and Mike Stern plays on several cuts including ‘Sonnymoon for Two’.

“Sonnymoon For Two” is a 12 bar blues written by tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins. The composition has since become a jazz blues standard. It was originally recorded in 1957, and can be found on the album, ‘The Freelance Years’. Several additional versions of this composition played by other jazz musicians can be heard here: ‘Sonnymoon for Two’

Stern’s solo on this blues is a tour de force of fast bebop lines and intricate chord work.
Each phrase is meticulously crafted, offering insights into his rhythmic and melodic thinking.
Considering the fast tempo (172 bpm) this solo is a real workout if you are planning on learning any of it, but it is full of some incredible lines and ideas.

You can hear the album track here, although I would encourage you to just go and buy the album like I did: