Date of Birth: October 13, 1926
Zodiac Sign: Libra
Date of Death: July 2, 2002
Biography
Ray Brown was an acclaimed American jazz double bassist whose career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Born on October 13, 1926, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Brown showed musical promise from an early age. He moved to New York City in 1945, where he joined Dizzy Gillespie’s band and quickly became a prominent figure in the bebop movement. Throughout his career, Brown collaborated with some of the greatest names in jazz, including Ella Fitzgerald (to whom he was married from 1947 to 1952), Oscar Peterson, and Duke Ellington. His exceptional technique and warm, resonant tone made him one of the most sought-after bassists in the industry. Brown was also known for his work as a bandleader and an educator, mentoring many young musicians. His contributions to jazz earned him numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award in 1997 for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance by an Individual or Group. Brown continued to perform and record music until his death on July 2, 2002, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire jazz musicians worldwide.
5 Interesting Facts about Ray Brown
1. Ray Brown was married to the legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald from 1947 to 1952.
2. He played with the Oscar Peterson Trio for over 15 years, establishing one of the most celebrated trios in jazz history.
3. Brown was a pioneer in the transition from swing to bebop, contributing to the evolution of jazz.
4. He recorded more than 2,000 albums over his career, both as a bandleader and a sideman.
5. Ray Brown was a dedicated educator, conducting masterclasses and workshops around the world to nurture young talent.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ray Brown
1. “Jazz is a feeling, more than anything else. It isn’t just a set of notes, it’s a way of life.”
2. “You don’t keep a band together playing the same thing over and over again. You have to keep evolving, keep growing.”
3. “Music is about the moments you create and the memories you leave behind.”
4. “I never wanted to be famous; I just wanted to be good.”
5. “The bass is the foundation of the band. If the bass isn’t right, nothing is right.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Ray Brown’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Ray Brown had one son, Ray Brown Jr., who followed in his parents’ footsteps and became a musician.
Relevant Links
2. [Ray Brown on JazzTimes](https://jazztimes.com/artists/ray-brown/
3. [Grammy Awards](https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/ray-brown
4. [Ray Brown’s Discography on Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/253577-Ray-Brown
5. [Ray Brown Interview on NPR](https://www.npr.org/2002/07/02/1149880/ray-brown-dies
