Walter Davis Jr.

Biography

Walter Davis Jr. was an inventive and highly regarded hard bop pianist and composer whose crisp, percussive style was deeply influenced by his mentor, *Bud Powell*. A first-call sideman, he played with icons like *Charlie Parker*, *Dizzy Gillespie*, and *Max Roach*. He is best known for his work with *Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers*, contributing key compositions such as 'Scorpio Rising' and 'Backgammon'. His sole album as a leader for #Blue Note# Records, 'Davis Cup', is considered a classic of adventurous, composer-driven hard bop, showcasing his sophisticated and blues-rooted voice.