Piano players, also known as pianists, are musicians who specialize in playing the piano, a versatile and expressive instrument with a rich history dating back centuries. Piano players come from diverse musical backgrounds and genres, including classical, jazz, pop, rock, and more.
These musicians are skilled in techniques such as keyboard proficiency, sight-reading, improvisation, and interpretation, allowing them to bring compositions to life and create their own unique musical interpretations. They often develop their own distinct playing styles, influenced by their musical training, personal experiences, and artistic inspirations.
Piano players play a central role in various musical settings, from solo performances and accompaniment to ensemble playing in bands, orchestras, and chamber groups. They may also compose original music, arrange existing pieces, or collaborate with other musicians to create new works.
Beyond their technical abilities, piano players are celebrated for their creativity, expressiveness, and ability to convey emotion through their music. Whether performing on stage, recording in the studio, or teaching others, piano players play an integral part in shaping the landscape of music and inspiring future generations of musicians.
1. Jerry Lee Lewis
Jerry Lee Lewis is a legendary American singer, songwriter, and pianist, often referred to as “The Killer.” He was born on September 29, 1935, in Ferriday, Louisiana. Lewis is renowned for his dynamic stage presence and his pioneering contributions to rock and roll music in the 1950s.
One of his most famous songs is “Great Balls of Fire,” which was a massive hit in 1957. His energetic piano playing and wild performances made him a sensation in the early days of rock and roll. Other notable songs include “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and “Breathless.”
Lewis’s personal life has been marked by controversy, including his multiple marriages, including a highly publicized marriage to his 13-year-old cousin when he was 22, and other legal and personal issues.
Despite the controversies, Jerry Lee Lewis remains an influential figure in the history of rock and roll, and his music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.
2. Fats Domino
Fats Domino, born Antoine Domino Jr., was an American pianist, singer, and songwriter who played a crucial role in the development of rock and roll music. Born in 1928 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Domino began playing piano at a young age and drew inspiration from the rich musical traditions of his hometown, including jazz, blues, and rhythm and blues.
Domino rose to fame in the 1950s with a string of hit songs that helped popularize rock and roll music. His distinctive piano playing style, characterized by rolling boogie-woogie bass lines and infectious melodies, became a trademark of his sound. Hits like “Ain’t That a Shame,” “Blueberry Hill,” “I’m Walkin’,” and “Blue Monday” topped the charts and solidified Domino’s status as one of the leading figures of early rock and roll.
In addition to his musical talent, Domino was also known for his warm, soulful voice and charismatic stage presence. His joyful, upbeat songs and easygoing personality endeared him to audiences around the world, and he became one of the first African American musicians to achieve widespread success in the mainstream music industry.
Domino’s influence on rock and roll music is immeasurable, and his contributions to the genre have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He remains a beloved and iconic figure in the history of popular music, celebrated for his timeless songs and infectious rhythms. Fats Domino passed away in 2017, but his music continues to inspire and delight fans of all ages.
3. Little Richard
Little Richard, born Richard Wayne Penniman, was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who played a pivotal role in the development of rock and roll music. Born in 1932 in Macon, Georgia, Little Richard began his music career as a teenager, performing in clubs and theaters around the country.
Little Richard rose to fame in the mid-1950s with a string of energetic, electrifying hits that combined rhythm and blues, gospel, and boogie-woogie influences. His dynamic stage presence, flamboyant personality, and distinctive vocal style set him apart from other performers of his era.
Hits like “Tutti Frutti,” “Long Tall Sally,” “Good Golly, Miss Molly,” and “Lucille” catapulted Little Richard to stardom and helped define the sound of early rock and roll. His raw, primal energy and uninhibited performances inspired countless musicians and became a hallmark of the genre.
In addition to his musical talent, Little Richard challenged social norms and broke down barriers with his androgynous appearance, makeup, and flamboyant fashion sense. He became an icon of individuality and self-expression, paving the way for future generations of artists to embrace their true selves.
Little Richard’s influence on rock and roll music is immeasurable, and his contributions to the genre have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He remains a beloved and iconic figure in the history of popular music, celebrated for his groundbreaking music, larger-than-life personality, and lasting impact on the world of rock and roll. Little Richard passed away in 2020, but his music continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
4. Liberace
Liberace, born Władziu Valentino Liberace on May 16, 1919, was an American pianist, singer, and entertainer known for his flamboyant style, extravagant costumes, and virtuosic piano playing. With his dazzling performances and charismatic stage presence, Liberace became one of the most iconic and beloved entertainers of the 20th century.
Liberace’s career spanned several decades, from the 1940s to the 1980s, during which he captivated audiences around the world with his unique blend of classical music, pop standards, and showmanship. He was known for his elaborate stage shows, which often featured lavish sets, candelabras, and grand pianos adorned with rhinestones and gold leaf.
In addition to his musical talents, Liberace was a master showman and entertainer, incorporating elements of comedy, drama, and storytelling into his performances. He had a warm and engaging personality that endeared him to audiences of all ages.
Throughout his career, Liberace released numerous albums, starred in his own television shows, and performed sold-out concerts at prestigious venues worldwide. He became one of the highest-paid entertainers of his time and was widely regarded as a cultural icon.
Despite facing controversies and challenges throughout his life, including speculation about his personal life and sexuality, Liberace remained dedicated to his craft and continued to entertain audiences until his death in 1987.
5. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder, born Stevland Hardaway Judkins, is an American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer who is considered one of the greatest musical talents of all time. Born in 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan, Wonder became blind shortly after birth, but his disability did not hinder his incredible musical abilities.
Wonder rose to fame in the 1960s as a child prodigy, signing with Motown Records at the age of 11. Over the course of his career, he has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and singles, earning 25 Grammy Awards and selling over 100 million records worldwide.
Known for his distinctive voice, innovative musical style, and mastery of various instruments, including the piano, harmonica, and drums, Wonder’s music transcends genres, blending elements of soul, funk, pop, R&B, and jazz. His hits include classics like “Superstition,” “Sir Duke,” “I Just Called to Say I Love You,” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours.”
In addition to his musical achievements, Wonder is also known for his activism and philanthropy. He has used his platform to advocate for various social causes, including civil rights, environmental conservation, and disability rights.
Stevie Wonder’s enduring legacy as a musical innovator, humanitarian, and cultural icon is widely recognized, and his influence continues to be felt in the music industry and beyond. He remains one of the most beloved and influential artists of all time.
6. Ray Charles
Ray Charles, born Ray Charles Robinson, was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who is often referred to as “The Genius” due to his unparalleled talent and groundbreaking contributions to music. Born in 1930 in Albany, Georgia, Charles lost his sight at the age of seven, but his blindness did not deter him from pursuing his passion for music.
Charles rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s with a unique style that blended elements of rhythm and blues, gospel, jazz, and country music. His soulful voice, masterful piano playing, and innovative arrangements helped redefine the boundaries of popular music.
Hits like “What’d I Say,” “Georgia on My Mind,” “Hit the Road Jack,” and “I Can’t Stop Loving You” catapulted Charles to superstardom and earned him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
In addition to his musical talent, Charles was also a trailblazer for civil rights, using his platform to advocate for equality and justice. He broke down racial barriers in the music industry and paved the way for future generations of African American artists.
Ray Charles’ influence on music is immeasurable, and his legacy as one of the greatest and most influential musicians of all time continues to endure. His innovative approach to blending genres and his ability to convey deep emotion through his music have left an indelible mark on the world of popular music, inspiring generations of artists across genres. Ray Charles passed away in 2004, but his music lives on as a testament to his enduring talent and creativity.
7. Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole was an iconic American jazz pianist and vocalist who became one of the most popular and influential entertainers of the mid-20th century. He was born on March 17, 1919, in Montgomery, Alabama, and grew up in Chicago, Illinois.
Cole’s smooth baritone voice and elegant piano playing made him a beloved figure in both jazz and popular music. He first gained attention as the leader of the Nat King Cole Trio, a jazz group that achieved success with hits like “Straighten Up and Fly Right” and “Route 66.”
In the 1950s and 1960s, Cole transitioned to a successful solo career as a pop singer, recording numerous chart-topping hits such as “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” “Too Young,” and “Nature Boy.” His rendition of “The Christmas Song” (commonly known as “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”) remains a holiday classic.
Despite facing racial discrimination throughout his career, Cole broke down racial barriers in the entertainment industry and became the first African American to host a nationally televised variety show, “The Nat King Cole Show,” in 1956.
Tragically, Nat King Cole passed away from lung cancer on February 15, 1965, at the age of 45. His musical legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans worldwide.
8. Oscar Peterson
Oscar Peterson was a Canadian jazz pianist and composer, widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists in the history of jazz. He was born on August 15, 1925, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and he passed away on December 23, 2007.
Peterson’s virtuosic technique, harmonic inventiveness, and rhythmic prowess earned him international acclaim and numerous awards throughout his career. He rose to prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, initially gaining attention as a member of the touring group Jazz at the Philharmonic.
As a solo artist, Peterson recorded prolifically and performed extensively, both as a bandleader and in collaboration with other jazz luminaries such as Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, and Count Basie, among others.
Some of his most famous recordings include albums like “Night Train,” “We Get Requests,” and “The Trio.” Peterson’s style seamlessly blended elements of swing, bebop, and classical music, showcasing his technical mastery and expressive depth.
Throughout his career, Peterson received numerous accolades, including eight Grammy Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Grammy. He was also awarded the Order of Canada, the highest civilian honor in his home country.
Beyond his achievements as a performer, Peterson was also a dedicated educator, sharing his knowledge and passion for jazz through teaching and mentorship.
Oscar Peterson’s legacy continues to influence generations of musicians, and his recordings remain cherished by jazz enthusiasts worldwide.
9. Chick Corea
Chick Corea, born Armando Anthony Corea, was an American jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader who was celebrated for his innovative approach to jazz and his virtuosic piano playing. Born in 1941 in Chelsea, Massachusetts, Corea began playing piano at a young age and quickly developed a passion for jazz music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Corea explored a wide range of musical styles, including bebop, fusion, Latin jazz, and avant-garde. He gained prominence in the 1960s as a member of the groundbreaking jazz ensembles of Miles Davis and later as a co-founder of the pioneering jazz fusion band Return to Forever.
Corea’s piano playing was marked by his technical brilliance, improvisational prowess, and boundless creativity. His compositions, which ranged from intricate, harmonically-rich melodies to energetic, rhythmically-driven pieces, showcased his versatility as a composer and his willingness to push the boundaries of jazz music.
Over the course of his career, Corea released over 80 albums as a bandleader and collaborated with some of the most influential musicians in jazz, including Herbie Hancock, Stanley Clarke, and Gary Burton. He received numerous awards and accolades, including 23 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most decorated musicians in jazz history.
Chick Corea’s impact on jazz music is immeasurable, and his legacy as a visionary pianist, composer, and bandleader continues to inspire generations of musicians around the world. His innovative spirit, adventurous approach to music, and dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the world of jazz and beyond. Chick Corea passed away in 2021, but his music remains a testament to his enduring talent and creativity.
10. Herbie Hancock
Herbie Hancock is an American jazz pianist, keyboardist, composer, and bandleader who has been at the forefront of jazz music innovation for over six decades. Born in 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, Hancock showed prodigious talent from a young age and quickly established himself as a jazz virtuoso.
Hancock’s career began in the early 1960s when he joined the Miles Davis Quintet, contributing to groundbreaking albums like “Maiden Voyage” and “Speak No Evil.” He gained recognition for his innovative approach to improvisation, harmonic exploration, and use of new technologies, including electronic keyboards and synthesizers.
As a solo artist, Hancock continued to push the boundaries of jazz music, experimenting with fusion, funk, and electronic music. His albums “Head Hunters” and “Thrust” are regarded as classics of jazz-funk fusion, featuring hits like “Chameleon” and “Watermelon Man” that became crossover successes.
Throughout his career, Hancock has collaborated with a diverse array of musicians and explored a wide range of musical styles. He has received numerous awards and accolades, including 14 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award for his film score for “Round Midnight,” and the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors.
Hancock’s influence extends beyond jazz music, with his innovative approach to composition, improvisation, and performance inspiring generations of musicians across genres. He remains an active and influential figure in the world of music, continuing to explore new avenues of expression and creativity. Herbie Hancock’s enduring legacy as a jazz icon and musical innovator is celebrated worldwide, and his contributions to the art form will continue to resonate for years to come.
11. Vladimir Horowitz
Vladimir Horowitz was a renowned Russian-born American pianist, widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. He was born on October 1, 1903, in Kiev, Ukraine (then part of the Russian Empire), and he passed away on November 5, 1989, in New York City, USA.
Horowitz’s exceptional technical prowess, combined with his emotive interpretations and charismatic stage presence, made him a legendary figure in the world of classical music. He began studying piano at an early age and quickly gained recognition as a prodigy. He made his debut as a soloist with the Kiev Philharmonic at the age of 16.
In 1925, Horowitz moved to the United States, where he achieved international acclaim for his performances. He became known for his dazzling technique and passionate interpretations of the works of composers such as Chopin, Rachmaninoff, Liszt, and Scriabin.
Throughout his career, Horowitz’s performances were celebrated for their electrifying energy and emotional intensity. He was particularly renowned for his ability to convey both the grandeur and the subtleties of the music he played.
Horowitz’s recordings and live performances continue to be highly regarded by musicians and audiences alike. He received numerous awards and honors during his lifetime, including multiple Grammy Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
Beyond his musical achievements, Horowitz was known for his perfectionism and for his eccentric personality. He retired from performing several times throughout his career but made triumphant comebacks each time, captivating audiences with his unparalleled talent until the end of his life.
Vladimir Horowitz’s legacy endures as a testament to his extraordinary skill and artistry, and he remains one of the most revered figures in the history of classical music.
12. Art Tatum
Art Tatum was an American jazz pianist and virtuoso whose exceptional talent and groundbreaking technique revolutionized jazz piano playing. Born in 1909 in Toledo, Ohio, Tatum was born with sight problems that eventually led to total blindness in his later years. Despite this obstacle, he developed an extraordinary ability to play the piano by ear and quickly gained recognition for his unparalleled skill.
Tatum’s playing style was marked by his lightning-fast technique, dazzling improvisation, and intricate harmonies. His virtuosic technique allowed him to effortlessly navigate complex chord progressions, intricate melodic lines, and rapid-fire runs across the keyboard with unmatched precision and speed.
Throughout his career, Tatum recorded hundreds of solo and trio performances, showcasing his incredible talent and innovation. His recordings, which include standards, jazz classics, and original compositions, continue to inspire and amaze listeners with their brilliance and complexity.
Tatum’s influence on jazz piano cannot be overstated, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest pianists in the history of jazz. His innovative approach to harmony, rhythm, and improvisation paved the way for future generations of jazz pianists and musicians, and his recordings remain a testament to his enduring legacy as a true master of the piano. Despite his untimely death in 1956 at the age of 47, Art Tatum’s contributions to jazz music continue to be celebrated and admired by musicians and fans around the world.
13. Dave Brubeck
Dave Brubeck was an influential American jazz pianist and composer, best known for his innovative approach to jazz and his timeless compositions. He was born on December 6, 1920, in Concord, California, and he passed away on December 5, 2012.
Brubeck’s distinctive style blended elements of classical music with jazz, incorporating unusual time signatures and complex rhythms into his compositions. He gained widespread recognition in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly with his groundbreaking Dave Brubeck Quartet.
One of Brubeck’s most famous compositions is “Take Five,” written in 5/4 time signature, which became a jazz standard and remains one of the best-selling jazz singles of all time. Another notable composition is “Blue Rondo à la Turk,” characterized by its fusion of jazz and Turkish folk music elements.
Brubeck’s contributions to jazz were not only musical but also cultural. He was an advocate for civil rights and broke down racial barriers by touring and performing with integrated bands during a time of segregation in the United States.
Throughout his career, Brubeck recorded over 100 albums and received numerous awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Kennedy Center Honors.
Dave Brubeck’s legacy continues to influence jazz musicians and enthusiasts worldwide, and his innovative approach to music remains celebrated for its creativity and originality.
14. Elton John
Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight, is an English singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who has had a profound impact on the world of popular music over the course of his illustrious career. Born in 1947 in Pinner, Middlesex, England, Elton John showed exceptional musical talent from a young age and began playing piano at the age of three.
John rose to fame in the early 1970s with a string of hit albums and singles that showcased his distinctive blend of pop, rock, and glam rock influences. Hits like “Your Song,” “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Bennie and the Jets,” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” became anthems of a generation and solidified John’s status as one of the most iconic and successful musicians of his era.
In addition to his musical talent, John is known for his flamboyant stage presence, elaborate costumes, and theatrical performances, which helped define the glam rock era of the 1970s. His charismatic personality and larger-than-life persona endeared him to millions of fans around the world.
Throughout his career, John has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring a wide range of musical styles and collaborating with artists across genres. He has released over 30 studio albums, won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and an Academy Award, and sold over 300 million records worldwide.
Beyond his musical achievements, John is also known for his philanthropy work, particularly his efforts to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research and treatment. His charitable contributions have earned him widespread acclaim and admiration.
Elton John’s influence on popular music is immeasurable, and his legacy as a pioneering artist, prolific songwriter, and cultural icon continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. He remains one of the most beloved and influential figures in the history of popular music, with a career that spans over five decades and a catalog of timeless songs that continue to inspire and entertain fans around the world.
15. Billy Joel
Billy Joel is an American singer-songwriter and pianist, best known for his prolific career in popular music spanning several decades. He was born on May 9, 1949, in The Bronx, New York City.
Joel’s music encompasses various genres, including rock, pop, and even elements of classical and jazz. He gained widespread fame in the 1970s and 1980s with numerous hit songs and albums.
Some of Billy Joel’s most iconic songs include “Piano Man,” “Just the Way You Are,” “Uptown Girl,” “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” “New York State of Mind,” and “She’s Always a Woman,” among many others. His music often features catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and his distinctive piano playing.
Throughout his career, Joel has received numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 150 million records sold worldwide.
Beyond his musical achievements, Joel is known for his engaging live performances and his ability to connect with audiences. He continues to perform in concerts and residencies, captivating fans with his timeless songs.
Billy Joel’s enduring legacy in the world of popular music is a testament to his talent as a songwriter and performer, and his songs continue to resonate with listeners of all generations.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
