Mary Lou Williams records Russian Lullaby - This Day inJazz March 12th 1952 #injazz #shorts #piano

Mary Lou Williams was a highly influential jazz pianist and composer, who made significant contributions to the development of jazz during her long career. One of her notable recordings is "Russian Lullaby," which was first recorded in 1952.Show more

Mary Lou Williams was a groundbreaking figure in jazz, who played a significant role in shaping the course of jazz history. Born in 1910 in Atlanta, Georgia, Williams began playing piano at a young age, and by the time she was a teenager, she was already performing professionally.

In the 1930s, Williams moved to New York City, where she quickly established herself as a top pianist and arranger. She played with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and Charlie Parker, and she became known for her innovative compositions and arrangements.

Williams' music was notable for its versatility and eclecticism, drawing on a wide range of musical styles and traditions, including swing, bebop, blues, and classical music. She was also a prolific composer, and her compositions were admired by musicians and critics alike.

The song "Russian Lullaby" was originally composed by Irving Berlin in 1927, and it became a popular standard in the jazz repertoire. Mary Lou Williams recorded her version of the song as a solo piano piece, which showcased her virtuosity and sensitivity as a pianist.

Williams' version of "Russian Lullaby" features a delicate and lyrical melody, which she plays with a gentle touch and a nuanced phrasing. Her use of harmonies and chord progressions adds depth and complexity to the song, while still maintaining the overall simplicity and beauty of the melody.

Overall, Mary Lou Williams' recording of "Russian Lullaby" is a testament to her skill as a pianist and her ability to infuse jazz music with emotion, creativity, and originality.

Despite facing discrimination and prejudice as a Black woman in the male-dominated world of jazz, Williams persevered and continued to push the boundaries of the genre. Her legacy lives on today, and she is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz pianists and composers of all time.