Ahmad Jamal, one of jazz’s biggest stars, died on April 16, 2023 at the age of 92. Afro-American pianist author of an impressive discography, he marked several generations of musicians.
His delicate fingering and his unique phrasing, both dynamic and light, made Ahmad Jamal a world famous jazz musician. A composer, but also a conductor, he distinguished himself above all as an outstanding pianist. He became a legend in 1958 with his album Pershing Jazzclub, sold more than 1 million copies. According to New York Times, it became one of the best-selling instrumental records of the time. A rare occurrence for jazzmen, unaccustomed to rubbing shoulders with the top of the charts.
Born in 1930 under the name of Frederick Russell Jones in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the African-American began music in the 1940s. An eclectic young prodigy, mad about Mozart and Debussy, he asserted himself in jazz and stood out for his relentless swing. A style based on improvisation, sometimes with romantic accents. Breaks in rhythm and silences, as on his legendary record Poincianareleased in 1963. Its innovative musical concept influenced the greatest musicians such as trumpeter Miles Davis.
Some 80 albums and prestigious awards
In the midst of the civil rights movement and while many jazzmen take a public stand, Ahmad Jamal does not place himself under any banner and stays away from Black Power. The Scrapbook The Awakening published in 1970 reflects this position, rejecting the political slogans of the time.
With nearly 80 albums, Ahmad Jamal has toured the biggest stages in the world and received the most prestigious awards, including a Grammy Award for his career spanning more than 70 years. Despite age, the kid from Pittsburgh has never given up on music. In an interview given to Times at the end of 2022, Ahmad Jamal declared: “ I’m still evolving, every time I sit at the piano “. ” I always have new ideas “.
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