News & Updates — Billie Holiday

Yes, I know it's the birthday today of a more famous pianist, Bill Evans, but I want to highlight Mal Waldron because I like his music better (it's just a matter of personal taste, pal) and I feel that he is underrated, despite a much-longer career than Evans. Born to West Indian parents in NYC, Mal grew up in Jamaica, Queens and took piano lessons before also playing alto sax in bands as a teenager. In the '40s he was witness to the bebop explosion and after college switched permanently to piano. Turning pro in '50, he cut first record...

Happy birthday to Lady Day, the most impactful American singer that ever lived. The most emotional and distinguishable voice in music, Billie Holiday was immensely popular. She was also a screaming example of how fucked up America is and exposed its mistreatment of those who come from the poorest sect of society. While she achieved wealth and fame due to her talent, the system failed her in so many ways. A victim of assault, racism, child poverty, prostitution, domestic abuse, jail time, theft, drugs and systematic legal bullshit (such as the revoking of her ability to perform in NYC), she...