Eddie Heywood

Eddie Heywood was a celebrated American jazz pianist and composer, renowned for his distinctive style and influential work in the 1940s and '50s. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on December 4, 1915, Heywood honed his skills under the tutelage of his bandleader father and quickly made a name for himself in the vibrant New York jazz scene. Known for his elegant arrangements and virtuosic playing, Heywood led his own groups and collaborated with jazz legends such as Billie Holiday, Coleman Hawkins, and Ella Fitzgerald. His iconic arrangement of Cole Porter's "Begin the Beguine" catapulted his sextet to fame, making them one of the most popular jazz groups of the era. Heywood's versatility extended beyond jazz, as he also recorded mainstream pop hits, including the chart-topping "California Sunset." Despite facing health challenges, including partial paralysis, Heywood's talent and creativity endured, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.