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

@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.

Larry Coryell - The Lift

Jeff Beck

Steely Dan simply ear candy

Cannonball Adderly - Something Else

Beastie Boys - Check Your Head... In 3's

Sonny Rollins - Way Out West

Joshua Redman - Spirit Of The Moment @ The Village Vanguard

My music library is vast with 20% covering Jazz, so much to discover and I have only scratched the surface.

What To Listen For In Jazz - book includes a CD... my copy is 30 years old and looks like it has been carried by a student for 3 days... good condition.  Let me know where to ship and I will get you your cost.

Jeff Beck - Wired or Blow By Blow

As an old rocker myself I recommend:

Archie Shepp

Return to Forever / "Romantic Warrior"

Clarke, DiMeola, Ponty / "Rite of Strings"

Madeleine Peyroux

Mahavishnu Orchestra - fusion

Vince Guaraldi / "Oaxaca"

Isao Suzuki / "Blow Up" (preferably on 45rpm vinyl)

Patricia Barber

Brian Bromberg / "Brombo!"

Linda Ronstadt / "What's New" "Lush Life" etc

Chris Botti / "To Love Again - The Duets"

Passport / "Hand Made" "Cross-Collateral" "Infinity Machine" - fusion

Pierre Moerlen's Gong - All are good to great - fusion

John Whitney / "Classical Jazz"

Lenny White / "Venusian Summer" - fusion

Melody Gardot

Ponta Box / "Modern Juzz"

I would also look at some of the various samplers to get an idea of the artists you prefer. Some that come to mind are from Marantz, Burmester, Vevus Records