How John Coltrane Constructed His Iconic ‘Giant Steps’ Using the Circle of Fifths. Even If You’re Confused, You Won’t Be At The End Of The Video.

John Coltrane, one of jazz history’s most revered saxophonists, released “Giant Steps” in 1959. It’s known across the jazz world as one of the most challenging compositions to improvise over for two reasons – it’s fast and it’s in three keys. Braxton Cook and Adam Neely give Vox a crash course in music theory to help them understand this notoriously difficult song, and they’re bringing you along for the ride. Even if you don’t understand a lick of music theory, you’ll likely walk away with an appreciation for this musical puzzle.