Morning Dance (song)

"Morning Dance" is an instrumental piece composed by Spyro Gyra saxophonist Jay Beckenstein and keyboardist Jeremy Wall. It is the title track from Spyro Gyra's 1979 album of the same name. "Morning Dance" is considered one of the band's signature songs and a foundational piece in the smooth jazz genre.

The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo, memorable melody, and blend of jazz, pop, and Latin influences. Beckenstein's soprano saxophone is prominent throughout, weaving around Wall's keyboard harmonies and Tom Schuman's Rhodes piano. The song's structure is fairly simple and accessible, contributing to its widespread appeal.

"Morning Dance" achieved significant commercial success, helping to propel the Morning Dance album to platinum status. It received considerable airplay on both jazz and pop radio stations, broadening Spyro Gyra's audience and solidifying their reputation as a leading contemporary jazz ensemble. The song remains a popular choice for use in television and film soundtracks, often used to evoke a sense of optimism and lightheartedness.

The influence of "Morning Dance" extends beyond its immediate commercial impact. It helped to shape the sound of smooth jazz and has been covered by numerous artists in various styles. Its enduring popularity demonstrates its appeal and its contribution to the landscape of instrumental music.