In the free market for jazz, there is rivalry. Styles can be freely imitated. There is no copyright on style. Innovation is how musicians seek to differentiate their product, and there are various ways to innovate. Thelonious Monk said of bop: “We wanted a music that they couldn’t play,” referring to competing with and outdoing swing-style jazz music. Slam Stewart’s work is an example of product differentiation. As one bio says, he “occupied his own unique niche in jazz.” He competed with other bassists, but he created a competitive advantage. Slam Stewart was the unusual bassist who sang an octave … Continue reading Jazz Birthday: Slam Stewart (1914)