Remembering the great Bill Evans who was born on this day in 1929. Known for lush harmonies and lyrical improvisation, Evans is regarded as one of the most influential pianists of his time. The way Evans built and connected chords and improvised melodies gave his playing a romantic quality that contrasted with much of 1950s bebop. In an interview given in 1964, Evans described Bud Powell as his single greatest influence. His repertoire was also unusual. Musical theatre pieces such as “Someday My Prince Will Come” and “My Favorite Things” became in his hands bold rhythmic and chromatic experiments. During his lifetime, Evans was honored with 31 Grammy nominations and seven Awards. In 1994, he was posthumously honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Here, he is performing “Emily” with Eddie Gomez on bass and Marty Morell on drums live in Finland, 1970.

Bill Evans performing “Autumn Leaves” with Eddie Gomez on bass and Alex Riel on drums live at the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway, 1967.