Mulgrew Miller was an esteemed American jazz pianist and composer whose proficiency and creativity positioned him as a touchstone in jazz from the late 20th century until his untimely death in 2013. Born on August 13, 1955, in Greenwood, Mississippi, Miller honed his craft with passion and dedication, driven by the influence of gospel music and the blues that pervaded his Southern upbringing. His ascent in the jazz world was marked by a tenure with the Duke Ellington Orchestra under the direction of Mercer Ellington in the 1970s, after which he went on to work with a slew of jazz legends, including Woody Shaw, Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, and the Tony Williams Quintet.

Throughout his career, Miller was known for his eloquent articulation on the keyboard, a skill he showcased both as a bandleader and a sideman. His body of work is a testament to his versatility and deep understanding of jazz traditions, evident in his nuanced renderings of standards as well as in his compelling original compositions. A prolific recording artist, Miller's late discography includes "Solo in Barcelona," a display of his solo virtuosity, and a series of live recordings like "In Harmony," "Fungii Mama," and "Monk's Dream," where his dynamic interplay with fellow musicians illustrates his ability to converse through jazz idiom. "The Art of the Piano Duo" and "The Duo - Live" highlight his collaborative expertise and the mutual respect that defined his partnerships with peers. Despite his passing, Mulgrew Miller's legacy lives on, his music continuing to inspire and influence jazz pianists and aficionados around the world.

Genres

Contemporary Post-bop

Jazz Piano

Latest Release

Solo in Barcelona

Mulgrew Miller

Album - 9 Tracks - Released August 18, 2023