Which jazz artist is known for popularizing the smooth, melodic approach in their music?

The correct answer is Stan Getz, who is renowned for his smooth and melodic approach to jazz, particularly in the genre of bossa nova. Getz's style is characterized by a lyrical and rich sound that emphasizes melody, making his performances feel accessible and emotive. His collaborations with Brazilian musicians, such as Joao Gilberto and Antonio Carlos Jobim, helped to bring bossa nova to a wider audience in the United States during the 1960s, further solidifying his reputation for a smooth and melodic jazz aesthetic.

In contrast, John Coltrane is celebrated for his innovative and complex improvisational techniques, often exploring intense harmonic structures and forms that differ significantly from smooth jazz. Charlie Parker is a pivotal figure in bebop, known for his rapid tempos and intricate melodies, which emphasize virtuosic playing rather than a smooth melodic approach. Louis Armstrong, while a legendary figure whose influence spans early jazz styles, is known for his powerful trumpet playing and distinctive vocal style, often focusing on expressive performance rather than the smooth melodic lines that define Getz's work.