Jean-Pierre

Album: We Want Miles (1981)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • George Cole, author of The Last Miles: The Music of Miles Davis, 1980-1991, considers this a standout track from Davis' last decade (he died in 1991). Writes Cole: "'Jean-Pierre' has a child-like melody and became Miles's signature tune. The funny thing is, no one agrees on the origin of the tune! Whatever, it was a tune Miles would close almost every show with for years." (For more on Miles Davis,read our interview with George Cole.)

Comments: 2

  • Perry from L.a.Jean-Pierre Durand was the son of Frances Taylor Davis (who Miles mentioned as his favorite wife). Best educated guess is that he named the theme after him... but there's no way to confirm this.
  • Dave from Scottsdale, AzMiles appeared on SNL around 1981 and performed this song. It was listed in TV Guide as "Miles Davis performs 'Untitled'."
see more comments

Editor's Picks

The Real Nick Drake

The Real Nick DrakeSong Writing

The head of Drake's estate shares his insights on the late folk singer's life and music.

Songs in Famous Movie Scenes: '80s Edition

Songs in Famous Movie Scenes: '80s EditionMusic Quiz

You know the scenes - Tom Cruise in his own pants-off dance off, Molly Ringwald celebrating her birthday - but do you remember what song is playing?

dUg Pinnick of King's X

dUg Pinnick of King's XSongwriter Interviews

dUg dIgs into his King's X metal classics and his many side projects, including the one with Jeff Ament of Pearl Jam.

Top American Idol Moments: Songs And Scandals

Top American Idol Moments: Songs And ScandalsSong Writing

Surprise exits, a catfight and some very memorable performances make our list of the most memorable Idol moments.

Jon Anderson

Jon AndersonSongwriter Interviews

Jon Anderson breaks down the Yes classic "Seen All Good People" and talks about his 1000 Hands album, which features Chick Corea, Rick Derringer, Ian Anderson, and many other luminaries.

Director Mark Pellington ("Jeremy," "Best Of You")

Director Mark Pellington ("Jeremy," "Best Of You")Song Writing

Director Mark Pellington on Pearl Jam's "Jeremy," and music videos he made for U2, Jon Bon Jovi and Imagine Dragons.