Horace Parlan

Horace Parlan, born in Pittsburgh in 1931 and later residing in Denmark, was a pioneering force in the world of jazz piano. Despite contracting polio as a child, which left his right hand partially paralyzed, Parlan defied the odds to become a renowned hard bop and post-bop pianist. His distinctive, bluesy style is perhaps best known through his collaborations with the legendary Charles Mingus on seminal albums like "Mingus Ah Um." Parlan's discography, featuring iconic works like "Movin' and Groovin'" and "Speakin' My Piece," showcases his soulful and innovative approach to jazz. Throughout the 1960s, he was a frequent collaborator with Blue Note Records, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Parlan's music transcends mere notes on a page, offering a profound and emotional journey for any jazz enthusiast.