Don Ewell

Biography

Don Ewell was born on November 14, 1916, in Baltimore, Maryland. He began playing piano at the age of ten and was initially interested in classical music, studying at the Peabody Institute. However, he soon shifted his focus to jazz, influenced by pianists like Earl Hines, Teddy Wilson, and Jelly Roll Morton. During World War II, Ewell served in the Army, where he continued to play in the style of Jelly Roll Morton whenever possible. After the war, he moved to Chicago and played with Bill Reinhardt's Jazz, Ltd. band from 1947 to 1949. In the 1950s, Ewell joined Kid Ory's band and later became a member of Jack Teagarden's band from 1956 to 1962. His career was marked by performances with notable jazz figures such as Sidney Bechet, George Lewis, and Bunk Johnson. Ewell's playing style was characterized by his ability to synthesize various influences while maintaining a unique sound. Despite facing personal challenges, including alcoholism and health issues, Ewell continued to perform until his death on August 9, 1983, in Pompano Beach, Florida. His legacy as a jazz stride pianist remains significant, with his music being described as joyous and multi-hued. Ewell's contributions to traditional jazz are celebrated for their depth and emotional resonance, even if he never achieved widespread fame during his lifetime.

Fun Facts

• Don Ewell was known for his ability to emulate the styles of various jazz legends, such as Earl Hines and Fats Waller, while maintaining his unique sound.
• Ewell's performances were often described as mesmerizing, with his rendition of 'The Saints Go Marching In' being particularly memorable.
• Despite his talent, Ewell never achieved widespread fame, partly due to the changing musical landscape of the 1960s.
• Ewell's early life saw him studying classical music at the Peabody Institute before transitioning to jazz.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Earl Hines - influence on jazz style (various recordings) [1930s-1940s]
• Jelly Roll Morton - influence on jazz style (various recordings) [1930s-1940s]
• Fats Waller - influence on jazz style (various recordings) [1930s-1940s]

Key Collaborators

• Kid Ory - band member (Good Time Jazz recordings) [1953-1955]
• Jack Teagarden - band member (various performances) [1956-1962]
• Bunk Johnson - performances and recordings (various recordings) [1940s]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Tulsa Time (Expressions)
2. I Believe In You (I Believe In You)
3. It Must Be Love (Expressions)
4. Some Broken Hearts Never Mend (Visions)
5. Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good - Single Version (Lord I Hope This Day Is Good)
6. You're My Best Friend (You're My Best Friend)
7. Good Ole Boys Like Me (Portrait)
8. We Got Love (New Moves)
9. (Turn Out The Light And) Love Me Tonight (You're My Best Friend)
10. Lay Down Beside Me (Expressions)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #jazz