Ralph Sutton was an American jazz pianist born on November 4, 1922, in Hamburg, Missouri. He was renowned for his mastery of the stride piano style, which hearkens back to the formative years of jazz, echoing the legacies of piano greats like Fats Waller and James P. Johnson. Sutton's career took off in the 1940s when he joined the Jack Teagarden band and swiftly gained a reputation for his authenticity and virtuosity in traditional jazz circles.

Throughout the 1950s and beyond, Sutton continued to solidify his status as one of the leading stride pianists, a title he retained until his death on December 30, 2001. His discography, particularly the later releases such as "Little Light (Live)," "Columbia Sessions (1950-51)," and "Live in San Francisco: Club Hangover 1954," captured the unbridled energy and technical finesse of his live performances. Albums like "In Copenhagen" and "A Pair of Kings" showcased his ability to collaborate and bring out the best in his fellow musicians, while "Rendezvous At Sunnie's 1969" highlighted his enduring appeal as a performer capable of reinvigorating the stride tradition for contemporary audiences. Sutton's contribution to jazz ensures that his music continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts of the genre and serves as an inspiration for pianists pursuing the art of stride.

Genres

Jazz Piano

Stride

Latest Release

Little Light (Live)

Ralph Sutton

Album - 14 Tracks - Released May 9, 2019