Obituary
Death of Ahmad Jamal at 92 reported. One of the most subtle and tasteful pianists I’ve ever heard (although I wouldn’t claim to be an expert in the field). I suspect his example has influenced more than one fiery young contender to lay back a bit and consider what notes they play.
BBC website: Ahmad Jamal dies at 92: Acclaimed jazz pianist who influenced Miles Davis
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-65295893
Not many of those greats left to us now, as the years continue to roll by.
His most famous album is “At The Pershing” but they’re all good.
There’s a lovely sort of quiet playfulness to his playing.
Exquisite stuff! Thanks for mentioning him, Fitter.
Considering how influential he was, he seemed to remain slightly under the radar, compared to some of his contemporaries – perhaps because he remained quiet, silky and tasteful while the music around him was getting loud and more aggressive.
Great quote here from Vijay Ayer:
“Pianist Vijay Iyer was just as adamant. “His sense of time is that of a dancer, or a comedian. His left hand stays focused, and his right hand is always in motion, interacting with, leaning on, and shading the pulse.
“He bends any song to his will, always open to the moment and always pushing the boundaries, willing to override whatever old chestnut he’s playing in search of something profoundly alive.””
https://www.npr.org/2023/04/16/846207919/ahmad-jamal-obituary
Aw, nuts. “Poinciana” is one of my favourites.
Very sad news. Genuinely one of the all-time great jazz pianists.
I loved his playing.
My favourite Ahmad Jamal records:
Cross-country Tour (i.e. the expanded version of “At the Pershing”)
Awakening
The Legendary OKEH & Epic Recordings
The recent “Emerald Nights” archival recordings from the 60s
Rest easy, sir