Red Garland

Red Garland, influenced by Nat Cole, Bud Powell, and Ahmad Jamal, developed a unique style characterized by his influential block chords. After transitioning from clarinet and alto to piano at age 18, Garland played with notable musicians like Charlie Parker and Coleman Hawkins in New York and Philadelphia from 1946 to 1955. His career took off when he joined the Miles Davis Quintet from 1955 to 1958, later leading his own popular trio and recording prolifically for labels like Prestige and Jazzland from 1956 to 1962. Following a period of semi-retirement, Garland made a comeback in the 1970s, recording for MPS and Galaxy before retiring once more.

Red Garland's innovative blend of influences from his era, such as Nat Cole and Bud Powell, helped shape his distinctive sound marked by influential block chords. Transitioning to piano at 18, Garland honed his craft playing with jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Coleman Hawkins in New York and Philadelphia from 1946 to 1955. Joining the Miles Davis Quintet from 1955 to 1958 elevated his career, leading to the formation of his successful trio and extensive recordings for labels like Prestige and Jazzland from 1956 to 1962. Following a period of reduced activity, Garland made a comeback in the 1970s, recording for MPS and Galaxy before ultimately retiring from the music scene.