Can you recommend Jazz for some one that doesn't like Jazz?

@stuartk

Yes, the Dead’s jazz influences don’t show up as consistently as with the ABB, probably because their music encompasses a lot more different musical styles and genres. But you can certainly hear it in songs like Eyes of the World, Bird Song, Crazy Fingers, and some versions of Dark Star. And the band would swing a lot more when Kreutzmann was the sole drummer for a few years in the early 70s.

Garcia played a lot more in the jazz vein with his own bands, especially with Merl Saunders and Howard Wales. He did some great versions of My Favorite Things with Merl. And of course, you also have Jazz Is Dead, which showed how many Dead songs could be adapted and played more 'jazzily' if that's a word.

@stuartk  I didn't mean it that lyricism is an exception in jazz.  It's just my preference, so I passed some recommendations on.  The "but" Wes Montgomery, probably should remove the "but".  I generally write off the top of my head, not a lot of editing. Sorry about that.  

I have friends who feel similar, never liked jazz. I have an extensive amount of jazz LPs and CDs in my collection and have enjoyed almost every new discovery, new and old. I have tried throughout the years to introduce my friends to jazz artists and recordings that might change their minds, even the most mainstream, never could. We all once went to a performance at the Jazz Standard in NYC a few years ago. At the end I turned to them and said " That was thrilling". They both said, "I hated it!". Different strokes.

@garrettc

Got it. I think I’m the one who owes you an apology for jumping to conclusions!

BTW, I enjoy lyrical Jazz, too. As an example, as I type this, I’m basking in the lyrical beauty of Mr. Stan Getz. The album is "Bossas and Ballads".

@theskipperthree

I’ve had the same experience. People have said "you actually like this?" and "It sounds like they’re playing two or three songs at once". Clearly, not all music is for everyone but which factors come into play in any given case can be difficult to pin down. 

OP.."I have tried to like jazz for over 30 years"... Over 30 years of trying is a hint that jazz is not your thing... My advice is to move on brother and explore other music. So much music out there to enjoy.