Thomas Wright "Fats" Waller (1904-1943) was an American jazz pianist, organist, composer, and comic entertainer. He was born Thomas Wright Waller on 21st May 1904 in New York City, New York, United States to a Baptist minister father. The Waller family migrated to Harlem from Virginia. Fats' grandfather, Adolph Waller, was an accomplished violinist. ...show more

Thomas Wright "Fats" Waller (1904-1943) was an American jazz pianist, organist, composer, and comic entertainer. He was born Thomas Wright Waller on 21st May 1904 in New York City, New York, United States to a Baptist minister father. The Waller family migrated to Harlem from Virginia. Fats' grandfather, Adolph Waller, was an accomplished violinist.

Waller started his musical career at an early age. He studied classical piano and organ as a child, taught largely by the music director of his Baptist church, who insisted he also learn the organ works of J.S. Bach. As a young adult, Waller took regular piano lessons from legendary Harlem stride pianist James P.

Johnson. He also benefited from legendary stride pianist Willie "The Lion" Smith, who gave Fats the nickname "Filthy". Johnson introduced Waller to the world of rent parties (a party with a piano player, designed to help pay the rent by charging the guests), and soon he developed a performing career; thus, making his first recording in October 1922 when he was just 18 years old. He was an excellent pianist -- now usually considered one of the very best who ever played in the stride style. ...show less