Dizzy Gillespie
Musician
Many consider him to be one of the greatest jazz trumpeters of all time, some even the best. Regardless, Dizzy Gillespie was simply an innovator and major jazz figure of his time. This legendary artist is best known for his contributions to bebop, Afro-Cuban Jazz, and quirky improvisational scat-singing techniques.
Biography
Dizzy Gillespie, a self taught jazz trumpet genius from the east coast, made his way into the spotlight as a pioneer of modern jazz during the 1940’s and 1950’s. His collaborations with renowned musicians, such as, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, and Jon Faddis gave rise to new styles of improvisational jazz techniques, which are still used today. Gillespie's image is almost inseparable from his trademark trumpet, whose bell bends upward at a 45-degree angle rather than pointing straight ahead as in the conventional design. This along with his unique horn-rimmed spectacles, scat-singing, pouched cheeks, and light-hearted personality are what make Dizzy Gillespie’s legacy still hold strong today.
Quote
"It's taken me all my life to learn what not to play."