“Take Five” is a jazz standard performed by the Dave Brubeck Quartet. Released in 1959 on the album “Time Out,” the composition was written by the quartet’s saxophonist, Paul Desmond. “Take Five” is notable for its unique time signature, written in 5/4 time, which gives the song its name.
The piece begins with a famous drum solo by Joe Morello, setting the rhythmic tone of the song. Paul Desmond’s smooth saxophone melody follows, accompanied by Brubeck’s distinctive piano playing, Eugene Wright’s bass, and Morello’s drums. The song’s catchy and unconventional rhythm, coupled with Desmond’s memorable saxophone lines, contributed to its widespread appeal.
“Take Five” became a major hit, reaching number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1961. It also became one of the best-selling jazz singles of all time. Its popularity not only in the jazz community but also among mainstream listeners marked it as a groundbreaking composition in the realm of jazz music.
The Dave Brubeck Quartet’s “Take Five” is celebrated for its innovative time signature, exceptional musicianship, and timeless appeal. It has become a classic in the jazz genre, often cited as one of the essential pieces in the history of jazz music.
