“Among pianists, [Bill] Evans, who died 30 years ago Wednesday at age 51, is as immediately identifiable as [Art] Tatum, Earl Hines, Teddy Wilson and Bud Powell. In artistry and influence, he is their inheritor and successor. With the exception of those who specialize in stride or boogie woogie, virtually all jazz pianists who developed from the early 1960s on learned from Evans and, if they could, adapted aspects of his playing.”—Doug Ramsey, “Emulating Bill Evans,” The Wall Street Journal, September 14, 2010
Ramsey’s article describes why Bill Evans (1929-1980) was a musician’s musician—notably, a technique that made him first an integral side man to Miles Davis, then a compelling leader of his own trio. But no writing, no matter how good (and Ramsey’s is very good indeed), indicates why Evans has burrowed into the hearts of so many listeners such as myself. Only listening to the music does that.
Here’s one example of his matchless artistry: a performance from YouTube of one of my favorite songs, “My Foolish Heart.” Marvel—then weep for the fact that we don’t have even more examples of such beautiful work from this sensitive artist who died all too young.
Ramsey’s article describes why Bill Evans (1929-1980) was a musician’s musician—notably, a technique that made him first an integral side man to Miles Davis, then a compelling leader of his own trio. But no writing, no matter how good (and Ramsey’s is very good indeed), indicates why Evans has burrowed into the hearts of so many listeners such as myself. Only listening to the music does that.
Here’s one example of his matchless artistry: a performance from YouTube of one of my favorite songs, “My Foolish Heart.” Marvel—then weep for the fact that we don’t have even more examples of such beautiful work from this sensitive artist who died all too young.
Incredibly influential musician. I see his influence in Harry Connick Jr's live performance, and in others today. Amazing how he closed his eyes as he played.
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