5 Things to Know About Wayne Shorter’s Speak No Evil

It was released in June 1966 on Blue Note Records. This album is a landmark post-bop session from Wayne Shorter.

The lineup includes Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass, and Elvin Jones on drums. All were top-tier jazz musicians at the peak of their powers.

The title track, “Speak No Evil,” is one of Shorter’s most famous compositions. Its haunting melody and shifting harmonies define the album’s mood.

The album was recorded in a single day, December 24, 1964. Despite the quick session, the performances are tight and inspired.

It is considered a classic of the hard bop and modal jazz era. Critics and fans rank it among Shorter’s best work for Blue Note.