Bill Evans

Bill Evans is an American Jazz pianist, known as “the poet of the piano” and characterized by a classical style, primarily influenced by his relaxed, European-inspired improvisational melodies. His instrumental performance stood out with his famous trios, where he was accompanied by drums and bass, showcasing the unique style of cool jazz that began to emerge during the era. 

Dozens of albums, countless collaborations, and the title of “one of the best pianists of the genre”... defined his musical development.

Biography

On August 16, 1929, in the city of New Jersey, one of the most emblematic representatives of jazz was born: William John Evans, known as pianist Bill Evans. 

Musical Studies

Evans was an academically trained artist, having studied at Southeastern Louisiana University on a scholarship. He graduated in 1950 as a musician and piano performer and, after serving in the military, pursued postgraduate studies at Mannes College. 

Musical Career

Evans’ early steps in music, after completing his formal studies, were with Herbie Fields’ band, with whom he embarked on a brief tour before serving in the military. During his service, he became a member of the Fifth Army Band. Later, he joined Tony Scott’s quartet, sharing the stage with a variety of musicians. 

In 1956, “New Jazz Conceptions” became his first album as a bandleader, introducing his most popular track: “Waltz for Debby.” Just a year later, he began developing his famous piano, bass, and drum trios, gaining worldwide fame.  

In 1958, he was honored with the title of “Revelation Pianist.” He also participated in a project with the renowned musician Miles Davis and released his second album as a leader, “Everybody Digs Bill Evans”, featuring the celebrated single “Peace Piece.” 

Drug Addiction and Death

After years of great achievements and reinventing jazz with his trios, Bill Evans passed away on September 15, 1980, at the age of 51, in the city of New York. 

His death was caused by a long-standing addiction to cocaine and heroin, the two major afflictions in the jazz world. The abuse of these substances led to internal bleeding, malnutrition, and liver failure, ultimately resulting in his collapse.

Musical Influences

Bill’s style was oriented toward a type of jazz native to California neighborhoods, known as West Coast Jazz, which developed alongside the Bebop movement that was firmly establishing itself in New York. 

For this reason, the main artists who influenced Bill Evans were Brad Mehldau, Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett, and Herbie Hancock. 

Collaborations

This classically inclined pianist was widely recognized for his trios. One of his most notable collaborations was with Paul Motian on drums and Scott LaFaro on bass, with whom he recorded his first live album, “Sunday at the Village Vanguard.” Another well-known trio featured Marc Johnson and Joe LaBarbera.

Additionally, he performed with artists such as Charles Mingus, Art Farmer, Lee Konitz, Oliver Nelson, Cannonball Adderley, Jim Hall, and Freddie Hubbard, among others. However, his work with George Russell, Art Farmer, and Hal McKusick on the project “Concerto for Billy The Kid”, as well as his eight-month collaboration with Miles Davis’ group, stands out particularly.

Discography

Bill Evans produced 77 albums as a bandleader or co-leader, all released between 1956 and 1980. Additionally, he contributed to 16 compilation albums and 54 records as a sideman. 

His main albums as a leader or co-leader include: 

• Trio with Teddy Kotick (bass) and Paul Motian (drums)
• Tenderly: An Informal Session
• Everybody Digs Bill Evans
• On Green Dolphin Street
• The Ivory Hunters
• Portrait in Jazz
• Explorations
• Sunday at the Village Vanguard
• Waltz for Debby
• Nirvana
• Undercurrent
• Moon Beams
• How My Heart Sings!

Famous Songs

• “Waltz for Debby”
• “My Foolish Heart”
• “Stairway to the Stars”
• “Skating in Central Park”
• "Peace Piece"

Enjoy Bill Evans’ Hits with Jazz Messengers Music

At Jazz Messenger Music, we are proud to offer history. More than just albums or records, we showcase legends that represent jazz at its finest, and Bill Evans’ work is an integral part of it.

If you admire his music and want to own the best collections, Jazz Messengers Music is your trusted music store.