Sound Ideas

#332 Godspeed Mr. Lewis

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One of the most prolific pianists of the twentieth century has checked out from Hotel Earth after 87 years ticklin' the ivories, almost one key for each passing annum. Ramsey Lewis is known to many, even those who don't know that they know of him have definitely heard him. Starting as a swingster with a deep appreciation of the blues and classical music, Ramsey morphed into a driving hard bop pianist leading a trio that would ultimately crossover musical demarcations as easily as birds cross national boundaries. He experimented with if not defined the modern piano trio, string ensembles, country music, chorales, classical music, pop hits, fusion, funk, electronic jazz, and yet with all this diversity, he never lost his affinity for the grand piano and jazz improvisation. He hosted jazz radio and television, and ensured that Chicago remains an important home for jazz. In this hour, we will attempt the impossible, to adequately reflect on Mr. Lewis' legacy in 58 minutes, but we shall give it our best. Godspeed Mr. Lewis, you will not be forgotten, and thank you for the legacy.