Art Blakey

Date of Birth: October 11, 1919

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: October 16, 1990

Biography

Arthur “Art” Blakey, born on October 11, 1919, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was an influential American jazz drummer and bandleader. He is best known for his work with his band, the Jazz Messengers, which he led for over 35 years. Blakey’s powerful drumming style and innovative rhythms helped to shape the hard bop genre of jazz. Over his long career, he collaborated with many of the greatest jazz musicians, including Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis, and John Coltrane. Blakey’s Jazz Messengers served as an incubator for young talent, nurturing the careers of numerous jazz greats such as Wayne Shorter, Freddie Hubbard, and Wynton Marsalis. His contributions to jazz were recognized with numerous awards, including induction into the DownBeat Jazz Hall of Fame.

5 Interesting Facts about Art Blakey

1. Art Blakey initially started his musical career as a pianist before switching to drums.

2. He converted to Islam in the late 1940s and took the name Abdullah Ibn Buhaina.

3. Blakey played a pivotal role in the development of the hard bop style, which incorporated influences from blues, gospel, and R&B.

4. The Jazz Messengers, Blakey’s band, became a proving ground for young jazz musicians, many of whom went on to have highly successful careers.

5. Blakey was known for his energetic and dynamic drumming style, which often featured complex polyrhythms and powerful, driving beats.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Art Blakey

1. “Music washes away the dust of everyday life.”

2. “You can’t separate modern jazz from its African roots.”

3. “Jazz is known all over the world as an American musical art form and that’s it. No America, no jazz.”

4. “You go for the quality of the performance, not just the quantity.”

5. “It’s a spiritual feeling when you’re playing, and it gets into your soul.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Art Blakey’s highest net worth is estimated to have been around $1 million at the peak of his career.

Children

Art Blakey had multiple children, among whom include Takashi Blakey, Sakeena Blakey, and Gigi Blakey. His children have continued his legacy in various ways, with some becoming involved in the arts and music.