Some
crossword clues
transport you immediately, don’t they? They don’t just ask for a word; they invite you on a journey through history, culture, or in the case of a particularly memorable entry, through the silky-smooth soundscapes of late 1970s instrumental jazz. There are few feelings quite as satisfying as cracking a
music crossword clue
that demands not just general knowledge, but a deep dive into the archives of a specific genre or era.
One such
crossword clue
that consistently challenges and delights solvers is: “Flugelhorn player on the 1978 instrumental hit “Feels So Good”.” It’s a clue that perfectly encapsulates the blend of specific knowledge and nostalgic recognition that makes a great
crossword puzzle
experience. It’s not just about knowing the song, which is iconic enough, but about identifying the very specific musician whose artistry brought that piece to life.
Let’s unpack this
crossword clue
. First, there’s the instrument: the flugelhorn. Often mistaken for a trumpet by the casual listener, the flugelhorn boasts a wider, conical bore and a deeper, mellower tone. Where the trumpet often cuts through with a bright, assertive clarity, the flugelhorn offers a warm, almost vocal quality, rich in vibrato and nuance. It’s an instrument beloved for its expressiveness, making it a perfect fit for the burgeoning smooth jazz and instrumental pop scenes of the late 70s and early 80s. Its unique timbre is immediately recognizable to those who appreciate brass instruments, and it lends a signature sound that became synonymous with a particular brand of sophisticated, easy-listening music.
Then there’s the song itself: “Feels So Good.” Released in 1978, this instrumental track wasn’t just a hit; it became an absolute phenomenon. It transcended genre boundaries, finding its way onto pop radio alongside rock and disco tracks, proving that instrumental music could capture the public imagination with its sheer melodic appeal. The song’s composition is a masterclass in understated elegance, building from that unforgettable opening melody to a soaring, optimistic crescendo. It evokes sunny days, open roads, and a feeling of pure, unadulterated joy. For many, it’s a sonic touchstone of the era, an audio postcard from a time when instrumental pop could dominate the airwaves. This
crossword clue
relies heavily on that widespread recognition.
The real challenge for any solver attempting to
solve a crossword clue
like this lies in identifying the
player
. While “Feels So Good” is universally recognized, the name of the musician behind the flugelhorn might not be as immediately front-of-mind for everyone. Yet, it was this specific artist who shaped the sound, whose improvisational flourishes and distinct phrasing elevated the track from a simple instrumental to a timeless classic. Their touch on the flugelhorn was not merely technical; it was deeply soulful, imbuing the melody with a characteristic warmth and a touch of playful improvisation that made it truly unforgettable. This particular
crossword clue
pushes solvers to delve deeper than surface-level recognition, demanding knowledge of the individual artistry that defined a musical moment.
For anyone trying to
solve a crossword clue
that hinges on such specific musical knowledge, it’s a rewarding pursuit. It encourages a journey of rediscovery, perhaps leading listeners back to that iconic track, or even to explore the broader discography of an artist whose work truly defined a genre. This isn’t just a
difficult crossword clue
; it’s an invitation to appreciate the virtuosity and enduring legacy of a musical pioneer who turned a simple instrumental into an anthem that still feels so good today.
Available Answers:
MANGIONE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0802-25 NY Times Crossword 2 Aug 25, Saturday