Kenny Drew, born in New York City on August 28, 1928, was an American jazz pianist who left a significant imprint on the hard bop and post-bop eras. Drew's adept and sophisticated approach to the piano made him a sought-after sideman and leader in his own right. Throughout his career, he played with a slew of jazz greats, including Lester Young, Buddy DeFranco, and Coleman Hawkins, eventually becoming a staple accompanist for John Coltrane, appearing on the seminal album "Blue Train."

In the 1960s, seeking a more conducive atmosphere for jazz and to escape the racial tension in the United States, Drew relocated to Copenhagen, Denmark, following the footsteps of other expatriate jazz musicians. This move marked a flourishing period in his career as he became a central figure in the European jazz scene. His recordings, such as "Undercurrent" and "In Copenhagen," feature a mix of American jazz standards and Drew's original compositions and reflect his evolution into a leading international artist. Despite not being as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, Drew's influence and contributions to jazz piano have been noted by critics, fellow musicians, and jazz enthusiasts alike. Until his passing on August 4, 1993, Drew remained an active performer, leaving behind a legacy of unique interpretations and an admirable discography that jazz aficionados continue to celebrate.

Genres

Bebop

Hard Bop

Jazz Piano

Related Artists

Bill Evans

Wynton Kelly

Oscar Peterson

Red Garland

Tommy Flanagan

Herbie Hancock

Bud Powell

Hank Jones

Thelonious Monk

Chick Corea

McCoy Tyner

Cedar Walton

Latest Release

Blue For Nica

Kenny Drew

Album - 12 Tracks - Released August 7, 2023