In a childhood filled with early musical experiences, mostly playing gospel music in his church and R&B and blues at dances. Mulgrew was constantly meddling in jazz piano, and established a trio in high school that would play cocktail parties. Miller admits that they didn't really know what they were doing and were merely "approaching jazz". Miller is said to have set his mind definitely to becoming a jazz pianist after seeing Oscar Peterson (a first for Mulgrew) on television. “It was a life changing event. I knew right then that I would be a jazz pianist”.
Mulgrew did indeed become a jazz pianist, and has adopted more from Peterson than his profession. Much of Mulgrew's playing has the same technical prowess so often connected with Peterson. Currently, Mulgrew maintains a working trio with Ivan Taylor on bass, and Rodney Green on drums. He has released four albums to date with Derrick Hodge (bass) and Karriem Riggins (drums) (both on the label Max Jazz Records): Live At Yoshi's Vol. 1 (2004), Live At Yoshi's Vol. 2 (2005), Live At The Kennedy Center Vol. 1 (2006), and Live At The Kennedy Center Vol. 2 (2007).
On May 20, 2006, Miller was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Performing Arts at Lafayette College's 171st Commencement Exercises.
Miller currently resides in Easton, Pennsylvania. As of 2006 he is the Director of Jazz Studies at William Paterson University.
Without a Song
Mulgrew Miller Lyrics
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Without a song the road would never bend
When things go wrong a man ain't got a friend
Without a song
That field of corn would never see a plow
That field of corn would be deserted now
A man is born but he's no good no how
Without a song
And I'll get along as long as a song, strong in my soul
I'll never know what makes the rain to fall
I'll never know what makes that grass so tall
I only know there ain't no love at all
Without a song
I've-a got my trouble and woe and, sure as I know, the Jordan will roll
And I'll get along as long as a song, strong in my soul
I'll-a never know what makes that rain to fall
I'll never know what makes the grass so tall
I only know there ain't no love at all
Without a song
The lyrics to Mulgrew Miller's song Without A Song, speak about the importance and power of music in our lives. The verse "Without a song the day would never end" emphasizes how music has the ability to fill the empty spaces in our lives, give us hope, and provide comfort. Similarly, the verse "When things go wrong a man ain't got a friend, Without a song" highlights how in times of struggle and hardship, music can be a source of solace and understanding that even friends cannot offer.
The verse "A man is born but he's no good no how, Without a song" comments on the belief that life is incomplete without music. It suggests that without music, we are unable to fully appreciate the beauty of life and enjoy its many gifts. The lyrics also demonstrate how music is a universal language that connects individuals across cultures and experiences.
Overall, the song Without A Song urges us to recognize how vital music is to our lives and how it brings us together as human beings. It reinforces the idea that music has the power to uplift our spirits, heal our souls and bind us together.
Line by Line Meaning
Without a song the day would never end
Music is essential to life, without it, our days would drag on endlessly.
Without a song the road would never bend
Music brings variety to our journeys, without it, roads would always be straight and monotonous.
When things go wrong a man ain't got a friend
In difficult times, music can be a source of comfort and support when friends might not be available.
Without a song, that field of corn would never see a plow
Music inspires creativity and productivity, without it, fields might remain barren.
That field of corn would be deserted now
Without the beauty and inspiration of music, work may seem pointless and unfulfilling.
A man is born but he's no good no how without a song
Music brings meaning and purpose to life, without it, life may seem empty and meaningless.
I got my trouble and woe but, sure as I know, the Jordan will roll
Despite the difficulties of life, music can provide hope and solace, even in the face of adversity.
And I'll get along as long as a song, strong in my soul
With music as a source of strength, one can face any challenge and find the strength to persevere.
I'll never know what makes the rain to fall
There are some things in life that will always remain a mystery, even with music to accompany them.
I'll never know what makes that grass so tall
The wonders of nature may never be fully understood, but music can serve as a reminder of their beauty.
I only know there ain't no love at all without a song
Music is integral to expressing and experiencing love, without it, love may feel empty or incomplete.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Edward Eliscu, Billy Rose, Vincent Youmans
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind