The death of Ramsey Lewis yesterday at the age of 87 prompted me to post these two quotes from our Bebop Spoken There archives. That they were printed 50 years apart gives an indication of just how long the pianist had been at the top.
Ramsey Lewis: “I guess all piano players go through a phase when Bud Powell is God ” – (DownBeat May 6, 1965).
Ramsey Lewis: “In Washington , D.C.
His recording career began in 1956 and continued until 2021 with 80+ albums and a few Grammys along the way.
As I type I'm listening to the Ramsey Lewis Trio Live at the Bohemian Caverns. Recorded in 1964 in Washington DC, it didn't pick up any awards - perhaps this was a West Side Story Medley too far even though it didn't have a three days long drum solo. It did, however, have some fine piano playing and a version of the Jet Song that brought the film scenario to life without a flick knife in sight. R.I.P. - Lance
1 comment :
On top of all the grieving and sadness we are all experiencing at present now this . Its hard to come to terms with , one of the greatest piano players ever gone . He is one of my go to artists on a daily basis not only on disc but his songs are peppered all over my playlist . Its a very sad time for all , frankly could have done with out this . RIP Sir we'll miss those precious fingers tinkling the ivories .
Post a Comment