Teddy Wilson, born Theodore Shaw Wilson, was a pioneering American jazz pianist renowned for his elegant and sophisticated swing style. Known as "the definitive swing pianist," Wilson's virtuosic technique was shaped by influences from legends like Earl Hines and Art Tatum. His career spanned over five decades, from the late 1920s to the 1980s, during which he collaborated with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, and Ella Fitzgerald. Notably, Wilson was one of the first black musicians to perform prominently with white musicians, notably with Benny Goodman's groundbreaking integrated band. Beyond his extensive work as a sideman, Wilson also led his own groups and recording sessions, leaving an indelible mark on the jazz world with his refined and tasteful piano playing.
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