Lessons from jazz musicians

When we first think of leadership, we often picture someone out-front, calling all the shots.

But the truth is - regardless of title, accolades or special responsibilities - leadership is simply about creating an environment for others to thrive. It all comes down to the power of horizontal relationships and learning to really listen to those around us.

Now, cast your mind to the dimly lit piano bars of New York City or New Orleans, because jazz bands can teach us so much about team connection.

As great jazz artists know, the magic happens in the act of ‘comping’ - where each musician experiments with chords, rhythms and countermelodies to support their fellow players.

The band’s mission whilst improvising is to not only take creative risks, but to showcase the soloist of the moment. Sometimes this means sitting back and letting a soloist find their flow, other times it might be about adding layers to build on a musical phrase.

The success of the improv rests on each musician’s ability to lead and listen. In the words of jazz pianist and Management Professor Frank Barrett, they literally ‘make each other happen.'

Finally, when it comes to 'horizontal relationships' - a culture where everyone is seen, heard and valued - creativity and courage are some of the many benefits for teams and leaders...

And the legendary Miles Davis discovered this first-hand!

As the story goes, Miles’ quintet came into the recording studio one day to find that Miles had roughly sketched some strange ‘modes’ - ones that were radically different to the popular bebop style of the time, and unlike anything the band had played before.

Not giving his fellow musicians time to think or rehearse, Miles reportedly turned to the recording engineer and said, “hit it!”

The band ended up creating a whole album in 9 hours over just 3 recording sessions, with some songs improvised in only one take.

This album came to be Kind of Blue, not only Miles Davis and band’s best-selling record, but the best-selling jazz record of all time.

It never ceases to amaze us what's possible when a team can build connection through a sense of authenticity, vulnerability, belonging and storytelling!