Phineas Newborn Jr. was a prodigiously gifted jazz pianist whose virtuosity on the keyboard was highly esteemed by both his contemporaries and jazz aficionados. Born on December 14, 1931, in Whiteville, Tennessee, Newborn hails from a musical family—his father, Phineas Newborn Sr., was a blues musician, and his brother, Calvin Newborn, was a formidable guitarist. Phineas Jr.'s dynamic technique and ability to navigate complex chord changes with both speed and precision earned him a significant place in the pantheon of jazz pianists. He made his mark during the 1950s and 1960s, a period often considered a golden era of jazz piano.

Despite battling health and personal issues that affected his career, Newborn's work continued to resonate with the jazz community. His discography includes the critically acclaimed albums such as "Here Is Phineas," which showcased his extraordinary skill as a soloist, and "A World Of Piano!," which cemented his reputation as one of the premier jazz pianists of his time. His records "We Three," in which he collaborated with bassist Paul Chambers and drummer Roy Haynes, and "Solo Piano" further display the depth and range of his musical abilities. His artful interpretations of jazz standards and his ability to imbue them with fresh energy were among the characteristics that distinguished his playing. Even lesser-known albums like "Plays Harold Arlen's Music from Jamaica" demonstrate Newborn's versatility and his penchant for exploration within the genre. Despite his death on May 26, 1989, Phineas Newborn Jr.'s legacy as a jazz pianist of exceptional talent endures, with his recordings continuing to inspire new generations of musicians and jazz enthusiasts alike.

Genres

Jazz Piano

Latest Release

Reflections

Phineas Newborn Jr.

Album - 12 Tracks - Released August 5, 2022