- Free Spirits · 1976
- Mary Lou Williams · 1964
- The Very Best Of · 1990
- Mary Lou Williams Presents Black Christ of the Andes · 1964
- Mary Lou Williams · 1964
- Mary Lou's Mass · 1975
- Zodiac Suite · 1945
- Free Spirits · 1976
- Mary Lou Williams Presents Black Christ of the Andes · 1964
- Zodiac Suite · 1945
- Mary Lou Williams · 1964
- Zodiac Suite · 1945
- Mary Lou Williams · 1964
Essential Albums
- While suffering from a bad case of writer’s block in early 1945, Mary Lou Williams turned to a book about astrology for inspiration. She quickly realized that the personalities traits denoted by each sign of the Zodiac could be a jumping-off point to draw a series of character sketches in music. Each piece was inspired by a famous friend in the jazz world. For example, “Aries” was the sign of Ben Webster and Billie Holiday. “Changeable, moody, and impulsive,” Williams later explained, “they seemed to me the examples I should choose for my composition.” Libras love beauty and art, therefore Williams wrote that one with Art Tatum in mind. Sagittariuses are said to be noble, successful, and magnanimous, which made Williams think of producer John Hammond. While the concept makes for an intriguing bit of personal history, the joy of Zodiac Suite doesn't depend on its concept. The song cycle inhabits a variety of moods, from playful to mournful, and the small-trio setting makes the music feel especially intimate, almost as if it were improvised especially for the listener in the lamp-lit comfort of a small New York City apartment.
- 2021
- 1978
- 1976
- 1975
Artist Playlists
- The jazz pianist who made spirituals swing.
Singles & EPs
Live Albums
- 1975
Compilations
Appears On
About Mary Lou Williams
Jazz pianist Mary Lou Williams was a child prodigy and seasoned professional by the time she reached her teenage years. Probably best remembered for her playing with Andy Kirk's Clouds Of Joy, Williams also became the group’s chief arranger. Her skilful charts were used by Earl Hines, Tommy Dorsey, Louis Armstrong, and Benny Goodman, who had a hit with her composition “Roll ’Em.” As a pianist, her range was incredibly wide, encompassing stride and boogie-woogie, swing, and early bop. She even recorded a duo concert with avant-garde pianist Cecil Taylor. Her own compositions ranged from big band and bop to the classical piece “Zodiac Suite,” which was performed by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra in the mid 1940s.
- HOMETOWN
- Atlanta, GA, United States
- BORN
- May 8, 1910
- GENRE
- Jazz