Samara Joy's interpretation of Thelonious Monk's "'Round Midnight" on her 2022 album Linger Awhile is a showcase of her ballad artistry, featuring a poignant trumpet solo from guest artist Terell Stafford. The performance unfolds at a slow 56 BPM in B-flat minor, honoring the contemplative mood that has made this one of the most recorded compositions in jazz history. Stafford contributes a quarter-chorus solo over the 32-bar AABA form, his warm tone and lyrical phrasing adding depth to an already atmospheric arrangement. The inclusion of Stafford as a guest on this track elevates the performance, bringing a seasoned instrumentalist's perspective to complement Joy's vocal interpretation. Monk composed "'Round Midnight" in the early 1940s, and it has since become a touchstone of the jazz repertoire, recorded by virtually every major jazz musician. Joy approaches the melody with careful attention to Monk's angular intervals while adding her own subtle inflections. The sparse accompaniment creates a nocturnal ambiance that suits the song's title and lyrical content. Within the context of Linger Awhile, this ballad performance demonstrates Joy's range as an interpreter, contrasting with the album's more up-tempo swing numbers and confirming her ability to sustain emotional intensity at the slowest tempos.
