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Top Ten Lee Morgan Recordings

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By Jason Innocent
September 3, 2023
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These albums represent a diverse range of Lee Morgan's musical output and showcase his virtuosity, innovation, and contribution to jazz trumpet.

The Sidewinder
Blue Note Records
1963

Morgan's most famous and commercially successful release is this album. It features the catchy title track, which became a major hit and is now considered a jazz standard.

Cornbread
Blue Note Records
1965

This album showcases Morgan's exceptional improvisational skills and features a stellar lineup of musicians, including

Herbie Hancock

piano
b.1940

" data-original-title="" title="">Herbie Hancock on piano and

Jackie McLean

saxophone, alto
1932 - 2006

" data-original-title="" title="">Jackie McLean on alto saxophone.

Search for the New Land
Blue Note Records
1964

Known for its innovative compositions, this album represents Morgan's exploration of modal jazz and features an all-star ensemble, including

Wayne Shorter

saxophone
1933 - 2023

" data-original-title="" title="">Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone and Herbie Hancock on piano.

The Gigolo
Blue Note Records
1965

This album is characterized by its energetic and swinging performances. It includes memorable tracks like "Yes I Can, No You Can't" and features a stellar rhythm section with

McCoy Tyner

piano
1938 - 2020

" data-original-title="" title="">McCoy Tyner on piano,

Bob Cranshaw

bass
1932 - 2016

" data-original-title="" title="">Bob Cranshaw on bass, and

Billy Higgins

drums
1936 - 2001

" data-original-title="" title="">Billy Higgins on drums.

Tom Cat
Blue Note Records
1964

A hard-bop gem, this album showcases Morgan's technical mastery and features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Jackie McLean on alto saxophone and

Art Blakey

drums
1919 - 1990

" data-original-title="" title="">Art Blakey on drums.

Charisma
Blue Note Records
1966

Released as part of the Blue Note "Liberty" series, this album features a mix of original compositions and covers. Morgan's playing is at its peak, and the album highlights his ability to blend soulful melodies with adventurous improvisations.

Delightfulee
Blue Note Records
1966

This album features Morgan's quintet, including

Joe Henderson

saxophone
1937 - 2001

" data-original-title="" title="">Joe Henderson on tenor saxophone and McCoy Tyner on piano. It includes a mix of original compositions and covers, showcasing Morgan's versatility as a performer.

The Procrastinator
Blue Note Records
1967

This album is regarded as one of Morgan's most ambitious and adventurous works. It features complex compositions and intricate arrangements, demonstrating his growth as a composer and bandleader.

Live at the Lighthouse
Blue Note Records
1970

Recorded live at the Lighthouse Caf�� in Hermosa Beach, California, this album captures Morgan's fiery and energetic performances. It includes extended improvisations and showcases his ability to connect with the audience.

Lee-Way
Blue Note Records
1960

While not as well-known as some of his later works, this album is a hidden gem. It features Morgan's early compositions and displays his remarkable talent at a young age.

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