Bud Powell

Bud Powell was a pioneering jazz pianist from the 1940s and 1950s who greatly influenced modern jazz with his innovative approach to improvisation and harmony. Known for his virtuosic technique and complex chord progressions, Powell helped shape the bebop style—an energetic and intricate form of jazz that emphasized fast tempos and improvisation. Despite personal struggles, his compositions and improvisations remain foundational in jazz history, inspiring countless musicians and elevating the role of the pianist in jazz ensembles.