Ramsey Lewis: Jazz Piano Legend
Ramsey Emmanuel Lewis Jr. (May 27, 1935 – September 12, 2022) was a groundbreaking American jazz pianist known for blending jazz with soul, funk, and pop.
Born in Chicago, Ramsey began piano lessons at age 4 and played in church. He led the Ramsey Lewis Trio from the 1950s and became a crossover star in the 1960s.
He hosted a long-running morning jazz radio show in Chicago and was named an NEA Jazz Master.
He passed away peacefully at 87 in Chicago.
Ramsey Lewis in a live studio performance
- The In Crowd (1965) – Live album; title track hit Top 10 on pop charts; Grammy winner
- "Wade in the Water"
- "Hang On Sloopy"
- "Sun Goddess" (1974 collab with Earth, Wind & Fire)
Over 80 albums, 5 gold records, 3 Grammys.
The In Crowd (1965) – Iconic live album cover
His joyful, energetic style and warm piano sound made him a crowd favorite.
Ramsey Lewis in full joyful performance mode
Classic live shot with signature energy
A landmark jazz-funk album with Earth, Wind & Fire; reached No. 12 on Billboard pop charts.
Sun Goddess – Striking, cosmic album artwork