Caravan: I was familiar with Caravan in the 60s through Gene Krupa and Buddy Rich.
In 1968, I was playing a 4-week gig in Key West, Florida. I speak and write about this memorable experience in my book, Notes of a Young Drummer 1966-1969.
Those 30 days of March 1968 include being “turned on” to many different artist, group styles of music. Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Jimmy Smith Trio with guitarist Wes Montgomery and Grady Tate on drums.
After the gig-late-night-till-sunrise-hookah parties included playing the LP record by Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention.
Frank’s lyrics from his 1967 record “Absolutely Free” his song “America Drinks and Goes Home” includes a notable lounge lizard vocal spoof. Lyrics include emulated closing time clichés promoting – The Jam Session - Dance Contest...Last Call For Alcohol - Bill Bailey and the feature...Caravan with a Drum Solo.
Caravan was composed by Duke Ellington and Juan Tizol in 1936. Sonny Greer is the drummer on the early 1936 recording with the Duke Ellington Orchestra.
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There are many versions of this classic. My favorite versions include Gene Krupa with Eddie Shu, Elvin Jones with McCoy Tyner and Thelonius Monk’s solo piano rendition.
I will mention without critique, that this tune “Caravan’ was a feature in the film, Whiplash.
For my arrangement, I attempt to maintain the traditional rhythmic feel of the melody with multiple time signatures. I use alternating 6/4 and 5/4 during the verses into 3⁄4 and 2/4 through the bridge. I imitate the old school Baby Dodds / Gene Krupa / Big Sid Catlett (Four on the Floor) style bass drum pattern on each bridge. Go-Man-G
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