Shakey Ground (arr. Paul Murtha): Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts
As performed by The Temptations / As performed by Elton John / As performed by Jeffrey Bowen / Arranged by Paul Murtha
Grade: 3
Item: 35-PK00331522
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Description
This 1975 tune by the Temptations is one of their later hits and described as "funkadelic" in style. This chart from Paul Murtha features the infectious bass line first stated by baritone sax and guitar, and later joined by the rest of the ensemble on the funky riffs. The solo section on a one-chord vamp can easily be opened up, but samples are provided for alto sax, trumpet, and trombone. Definitely a fun chart with attitude!
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00331522
More about this title
About the Artist: The Temptations
The Temptations emerged from Detroit in the 1960s as one of Motown's most polished and innovative vocal groups. Their precise choreography, sophisticated harmonies, and ability to evolve across musical styles made them central to the label's success and helped define the sound of soul music for generations.
By the mid-1970s, the group continued pushing into funkier territory, blending their vocal prowess with the emerging sounds of funk and R&B. Their later hits, including "Shakey Ground," showcased their willingness to embrace harder grooves while maintaining the vocal precision that made them legendary. For music educators, their catalog represents a masterclass in arrangement, timing, and the interplay between vocals and instrumental color.
Why we love this
Paul Murtha's arrangement taps into exactly what makes this tune irresistible: that funky, grounded bass line that students hear immediately and want to lock into. The scaffolded solo section with provided samples gives your ensemble concrete models to follow, so even players hesitant about improvisation can jump in with confidence and style.
What to expect
Grounded, funky, and unapologetically cool. The kind of tune that makes audiences move in their seats and players feel like they're part of something with real swagger. It's accessible enough to feel rewarding after a few rehearsals but groovy enough to keep the energy high.
Who it's for
Jazz ensembles at the intermediate level who are ready to tackle a contemporary groove with real attitude. It works equally well for groups building their pop and funk repertoire or for programs looking to feature strong soloists in a supportive, playable context.
How to get the most out of it
- Nail the bass line first. Have baritone sax and guitar sit together in rehearsal before layering in the fuller riff sections; this foundation makes everything else click into place.
- Keep the one-chord vamp spacious and open in the solo section rather than padding it with fills. Let the soloists breathe and own their moment.
- Balance the funkadelic attitude with precision. The tightness of the hits and the cleanliness of the section parts are what make the groove feel intentional, not sloppy.
- Listen to the original recording as an ensemble. Hearing where Elton John's energy sits and how the production sits back on the beat will inform your interpretation immediately.
How to use it
This chart fits naturally into a pops or contemporary jazz set, especially if you're building a concert around music from the 1970s or exploring Motown's later evolution. It also pairs well with other funk-tinged charts as a way to energize the middle of a program and shift the mood.
Skills your students will build
- Locking into a fixed groove and maintaining pocket feel across an extended vamp
- Phrasing over a one-chord foundation without relying on harmonic movement for direction
- Balancing solo improvisation with ensemble precision
- Interpreting funk and soul phrasing in a small group setting
- Building arrangement texture through layering riffs and counterlines