Sonny Clark
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Conrad Yeatis (Sonny) Clark (July 21, 1931 in Herminie, Pennsylvania – January 13, 1963 in New York City) was an American hard bop pianist.
An underappreciated jazz artist during his time, Sonny Clark's works have become much more famous after his death. Strongly influenced by Bud Powell, Sonny Clark is known for his unique touch, sense of melody and complex, hard-swinging style.
A master comper, Sonny Clark was often requested as a sideman by his contemporary jazz musicians. He recorded frequently for Blue Note Records, on which he played as a sideman with several of the most important hard bop players, including:
- Kenny Burrell
- Donald Byrd
- Paul Chambers
- John Coltrane
- Dexter Gordon
- Art Farmer
- Grant Green
- Philly Joe Jones
- Clifford Jordan
- Jackie McLean
- Hank Mobley
- Art Taylor
- Wilbur Ware
Although his compositions were relatively rare, the few that were recorded have achieved a cult following, most notably among Japanese jazz enthusiasts. A drug addict, he died of a heroin overdose.
[edit] Selected discography
- Cool Struttin' (Blue Note 1958)
- Dial "S" for Sonny (Blue Note 1957)
- Leapin' and Lopin' (Blue Note 1961)
- Sonny Clark Trio (Blue Note 1957)
- Sonny Clark Trio (Time 1960)
- Sonny's Crib (Blue Note 1957)
