At 100: These Performers Left An Indelible Mark On Jazz

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The musical similarities among all the folks below might be in short supply, but each of these performers irrevocably changed jazz. Whether it was through Art Blakey’s (he was actually born in 1919, but that’s pretty close) tutelage and encouragement of the best jazz composers ever to record or Dave Brubeck’s chart success, the music is better—and dramatically different—than it would have been otherwise.

Below, DownBeat salutes six iconic artists who were born 100 years ago. DB

Art Blakey, the Mightiest Mentor

The Sound and Myth of Charlie Parker at 100

Dave Brubeck’s Legacy Enters a New Era

Clark Terry Fostered Generations of Performers

Shelly Manne Cultivated a Unique Brand from Behind the Kit

Yusef Lateef, The ‘Evolutionist’



  • Claire_Daly_George_Garzone_at_Dizzys_2023_5x7_copy.jpg

    Claire Daly, right, ​performs with tenor saxophonist George Garzone at Dizzy’s in 2023.

  • Benny_Golson_by_Michael_Jackson.jpg

    Benny Golson soaks in the music during a late-career performance at Chicago’s Jazz Showcase.

  • Quincy_Jones_by_artstreiber.com1.jpg

    Quincy Jones’ gifts transcended jazz, but jazz was his first love.

  • John-McNeil-credit-to-Eldon-Phillips.jpg

    McNeil’s virtuosity as a player was unimpeachable and his imagination as an improviser was vast.

  • Roy_Haynes_by_Michael_Jackson_2012.jpg

    “I treat every day like it’s Thanksgiving,” said Roy Haynes in describing what made him successful.


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