Art Blakey recorded 'A Jazz Message' in February 1963 for the Impulse! label, in a session that brought together prominent musicians such as saxophonist Sonny Stitt and pianist McCoy Tyner. The album was released in 1964 and shows Blakey exploring a smaller format, away from his usual Jazz Messengers.
The recording took place at the Englewood Cliffs studios in New Jersey, with Rudy Van Gelder as sound engineer. The title refers to Blakey's intention to convey a direct and sincere musical message, combining original compositions with jazz standards.
Although not one of Blakey's most commercial albums, 'A Jazz Message' is valued by critics for the interaction between the soloists and the characteristic rhythmic energy of the drummer. The record includes tracks such as 'The Chess Players' and 'Alamode'.