Winifred Atwell

Winifred Atwell, born in Trinidad in 1914, was a trailblazing pianist who captivated audiences in Britain and Australia throughout the 1950s with her infectious boogie-woogie and ragtime tunes. Atwell's journey to stardom began at the age of four when she first touched the piano keys, and by six, she was already giving recitals. Her classical training and chemistry degree didn't deter her from pursuing her passion for music, leading her to become one of the best-selling artists of the decade in the UK. Atwell made history as the first black artist and the first female instrumentalist to top the UK Singles Chart with her hit "Let's Have Another Party" in 1954. Her dynamic performances on the upright piano and extensive repertoire, which includes classics like "Cross Hands Boogie" and "Black and White Rag," continue to inspire musicians and delight fans worldwide. Atwell's legacy as a pioneering musician and her significant contributions to the music industry are celebrated to this day.