3 Facts About Who Wrote 'Take Five'

Saxophonist Paul Desmond wrote ‘Take Five,’ not Dave Brubeck. Desmond was the alto saxophonist in the Dave Brubeck Quartet.

The song became one of the best-selling jazz singles of all time. Its unusual 5/4 time signature made it instantly recognizable.

Brubeck is often mistakenly credited as the composer. This is because he led the quartet and the song is most associated with his name.