Hampton Hawes (1928 - 1977) was an American jazz pianist. Already as a teen, he was playing with well known musicians as Dexter Gordon and Wardell Gray. He was a member of the Howard McGhee band, where he played with Charlie Parker. Recorded with Charles Mingus ("Mingus Three", 1957, Roulette) Hawes led his own trio, with bassist Red Mitchell and drummer Chuck Thompson. ...show more

Hampton Hawes (1928 - 1977) was an American jazz pianist. Already as a teen, he was playing with well known musicians as Dexter Gordon and Wardell Gray. He was a member of the Howard McGhee band, where he played with Charlie Parker. Recorded with Charles Mingus ("Mingus Three", 1957, Roulette) Hawes led his own trio, with bassist Red Mitchell and drummer Chuck Thompson.

In 1958, he was arrested for heroin possession, and served time in jail until 1963, when John F. Kennedy granted him a presidential pardon. He died of a stroke, only 48 years old.. ...show less