| By Anthony Alden: Claude Black was a kind, Soft Spoken Gentleman who music touched the hearts and soul of many. |
Detroit Mi: Claude Black, Jazz pianist who performed with Stan Getz, Charlie Parker, Wes Montgomery and Aretha Franklin was a close personal friend and on many occasions would visit our home as a special guest.
Claude was a kind, soft spoken gentleman who music touched the hearts and soul of many but unfortunately like so many great jazz artist his notoriety never quit hit the mainstream audience.
He began his jazz career in 1948 but his big success was in 1965 when he began his tour with Aretha Franklin. Black died on January 17, 2013, at the age of 80, after suffering from cancer for a long time
Claude grew up in Detroit, Mi but found a jazz heaven in Toledo, Ohio which became not only his home for over 20 years but his creative laboratory for jazz jam sessions.
I had the opportunity to hear Claude Black live at several intimate jazz spots in Toledo over the years one notably was as the house pianist for "Murphy’s Place" for more than two decades he worked with emerging musicians, teaching them musical skills he learned over the many years.
His music is timeless a thus I wanted to share his creative genius with our listeners who are jazz oriented as well as those of your who just love and appreciate listening to organic sounds.
Rest In Peace Claude Black your legacy didn't fall on death ears.
Thank you for not only the many memories but for introducing me to the art of jazz.
