Hampton Hawes was an American jazz pianist born on November 13, 1928, in Los Angeles, California. His career is a tapestry of modern jazz expression, as he was among the leading bebop stylists of the post-World War II era. With an impressive knack for improvisation and an intimate understanding of the blues, Hawes was lauded for his work during the 1950s. Though his life was marked by struggles, including a battle with drug addiction and a stark period of incarceration, his music has stood the test of time as a testament to his talent and resilience.

Hawes’ discography includes a prolific output of albums that capture his innovation and dexterity on the piano. Among his standout works are the optimistically titled "The Music You Need" and the warmly introspective "Me & You To The Moon," which highlight his harmonic ingenuity and rhythmic fluency. His performances, such as those captured on "Live at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago, Vol. 2" and "Trio at Montreux," showcase his command of the live setting, an arena where he often shone brightly. His series "Everybody Likes Hampton Hawes, Vol. 3: The Trio" and the exuberant "Four!" arte clear indicators of his standing among contemporaries and jazz aficionados alike. Despite the ups and downs of his career, Hampton Hawes left an indelible mark on the world of jazz piano, influencing generations to come. He passed away on May 22, 1977, but his legacy as a jazz innovator continues to resonate.

Genres

Hard Bop

Jazz Piano

Latest Release

The Music You Need

Hampton Hawes

Album - 19 Tracks - Released January 20, 2023