Fats Waller - Bio, Age, Chinese Zodiac Sign & Timeline
| Born | May 21, 1904 |
|---|---|
| Died | December 15, 1943 (age 39) |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini - (see also Fats Waller's horoscope and birth chart) |
| Chinese Zodiac | Dragon |
| Generation | Greatest Generation |
| Known For | Being one of the most important figures in early jazz, especially as a pianist and composer; known for songs such as "Ain't Misbehavin'" and "Honeysuckle Rose". |
Intro
Fats Waller was an influential American jazz pianist, organist, composer, and comedic entertainer, widely recognized for his innovations in stride piano and contributions to the development of early jazz.
Early Life & Background
Born Thomas Wright Waller in New York City, Fats Waller was the youngest of four children in a musical family. His mother encouraged his early interest in music, and he began playing the piano at the age of six, showing prodigious talent. He grew up in Harlem, where he was influenced by the vibrant jazz scene and studied under pianist James P. Johnson.
Career Highlights
- Became one of the pioneers of the stride piano style in Harlem during the 1920s.
- Composed enduring jazz standards including "Ain't Misbehavin'", "Honeysuckle Rose", and "Jitterbug Waltz".
- Recorded prolifically in the 1930s and early 1940s, creating both jazz compositions and humorous novelty songs.
- Appeared in films and on radio, becoming an entertainer beloved for both his musical talents and charismatic stage presence.
- Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame posthumously.
Trivia
- Nickname 'Fats' referred not just to his size but also as a term of endearment in the jazz community.
- Collaborated frequently with lyricist Andy Razaf.
- Died at the young age of 39 while traveling by train near Kansas City, Missouri.
FAQs
People also ask
Fats Waller was born the 21 May 1904.
New York City, New York, USA.
On His Birth-Day
About May 21st, 1904, in brief:
- Historical events: The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) was founded on May 21, 1904, in Paris, France, to oversee international competition among national football associations.
- Day of the week: May 21st, 1904 was a Saturday
- Zodiac Sign: Gemini (in western zodiac), Dragon (in Chinese zodiac)
- Moon Phase:
- Popular movie: The Wonderful Living Fan directed by Georges Méliès
Check the link for more news and curiosities on May 21st, 1904.