Date of Birth: October 13, 1909
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: November 5, 1956
Biography
Arthur “Art” Tatum Jr. was an American jazz pianist, widely regarded as one of the greatest in the history of jazz. Born in Toledo, Ohio, Tatum was a child prodigy with perfect pitch and a remarkable ability to play complex pieces by ear. Despite being nearly blind, he developed an extraordinary technique marked by its speed, precision, and creativity. Tatum’s innovative approach to jazz piano influenced countless musicians and helped shape the bebop movement. Throughout his career, he performed as a solo artist and collaborated with other jazz legends, producing numerous recordings that continue to inspire jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike. Tatum’s legacy endures through his recordings and the profound impact he had on the world of jazz.
5 Interesting Facts about Art Tatum
1. Art Tatum was nearly blind from birth due to cataracts and lost most of his vision in one eye.
2. He was largely self-taught and had the ability to reproduce complex piano pieces after hearing them just once.
3. Tatum’s stride piano technique and lightning-fast arpeggios set a new standard for jazz pianists.
4. He won the DownBeat magazine’s critics poll for three consecutive years from 1944 to 1946.
5. Despite his short life, Tatum recorded extensively, leaving behind a vast and influential body of work.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Art Tatum
1. “There is no such thing as a wrong note.”
2. “I play by ear, but also I read a lot of music.”
3. “Jazz is the only music in which the same note can be played night after night but differently each time.”
4. “I think all jazz should be played with a certain amount of precision.”
5. “I don’t think there is any place for compromising in jazz.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
Art Tatum’s highest net worth is estimated to have been around $500,000 at the peak of his career, adjusted for inflation.
Children
Art Tatum did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Art Tatum – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Tatum
2. [Art Tatum Biography – AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/art-tatum-mn0000607582/biography
3. [Art Tatum – Jazz.com](http://www.jazz.com/encyclopedia/tatum-art
4. [Art Tatum Discography – Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/255087-Art-Tatum
5. [Art Tatum – Legacy Recordings](https://www.legacyrecordings.com/artists/art-tatum/
