Larry Willis

Pianist Larry Willis is one of the very best mainstream jazz pianists extant. Like Herbie Hancock, Willis is lyrical but also excels in an assortment of contexts. Emerging from a classical background, he was for many years the quintessential sideperson, performing and recording with Hugh Masekela, Jackie McLean, Carmen McRae, and Woody Shaw. He was also a member of the fusion/pop band Blood, Sweat & Tears for many years. In the 1990’s Willis established himself as a leader, releasing many discs on European and American independent labels.