Ellis Larkins

Ellis Larkins
Birth name Ellis Larkins
Born (1923-05-15)May 15, 1923
Origin Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
Died September 30, 2002(2002-09-30) (aged 79)
Genres Jazz
Occupation(s) Musician
Instruments Piano
Associated acts Ella Fitzgerald, Ruby Braff, Eartha Kitt, Chris Connor, Beverly Kenney

Ellis Larkins (May 15, 1923 – September 30, 2002) was an American jazz pianist born in Baltimore, Maryland, perhaps best known for his two recordings with Ella Fitzgerald: the albums Ella Sings Gershwin (1950) and Songs in a Mellow Mood (1954).[1] He was also the leader in the first solo sides by singer Chris Connor on her album Chris (1954).

Larkins was the first African American to attend the Peabody Conservatory of Music, a well-known institute in Baltimore. He began his professional playing career in New York City after moving there to attend the Juilliard School. Following school Larkins performed jazz piano with Billy Moore and Edmond Hall. He recorded with Coleman Hawkins, Mildred Bailey, and Dicky Wells in the 1940s. In the 1950s he recorded with Ella Fitzgerald, Ruby Braff, and Beverly Kenney. His 1960s work included recordings or performances with Eartha Kitt, Joe Williams, Helen Humes, Georgia Gibbs and Harry Belafonte.

Though he was best known as an accompanist, Larkins recorded several solo albums in the 1950s. In the 1970s he performed regularly at several New York venues, including Gregory's, a small bar in the east 70s. Traditional jazz fans regard him as one of the most lyrical and romantic pianists in jazz history, next to Jimmy Jones.

Select discography

Solo

With Ruby Braff

With Ella Fitzgerald

With Sonny Stitt

With Anita Kert Ellis

References

  1. ↑ "Jazz Profiles – Ellis Larkins". National Public Radio. Retrieved 2009-10-09.
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