There are few pianists in the history of jazz who have been more influential than Mary Lou Williams. I would go so far as to say she is one of the ten most important pianists. John Hicks has recorded a tribute to her. Dave Douglas has recorded a tribute to her. She was the moving force of Andy Kirk and His Twelve Clouds of Joy when she was with them - composing, arranging and playing piano for the band. She did arranging for Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She was a mentor for Thelonious Monk and Bud Powell before they made their mark with the advent of bebop. She played stride. She could swing. She could play the blues. She could...well, why don't you give this recording a listen and find out for yourself.Enjoy!
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