Country

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United States of America

Birth

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January 20, 1960 in Pittsburgh, PA

 

Jeff Tain Watts is a renowned jazz drummer and composer who has made a significant contribution to the world of music. Born on January 20, 1960, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Watts grew up in a musical family. His father was a steelworker who played drums in his spare time, and his mother was a church pianist. Watts started playing the drums at the age of eight and was soon performing in his father's band. Watts attended Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, where he studied classical percussion and jazz. He later moved to New York City to pursue his career in music. In 1981, he joined the Wynton Marsalis Quintet, which was at the forefront of the jazz revival of the 1980s. Watts played with the group for four years, during which time they recorded several albums and won numerous awards. In 1985, Watts left the Wynton Marsalis Quintet to join the Michael Brecker Band. He played with the group for six years and recorded several albums with them. During this time, Watts also worked with other jazz greats such as George Benson, Harry Connick Jr., and McCoy Tyner. In 1991, Watts formed his own band, the Jeff Tain Watts Quartet. The group released their debut album, Megawatts, in 1991, which was well-received by critics and audiences alike. The album showcased Watts' unique style of drumming, which combined elements of swing, bebop, and funk. Watts continued to record and perform with his quartet throughout the 1990s and 2000s. In 2004, he released his first solo album, Bar Talk, which featured his compositions and arrangements. The album received critical acclaim and showcased Watts' versatility as a musician. In addition to his work as a performer, Watts has also worked as a composer and arranger. He has written music for films, television, and theater productions. He has also collaborated with other musicians on various projects, including the Grammy-winning album, The Marsalis Family: A Jazz Celebration. Watts has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. In 1988, he won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, Group, for his work with the Michael Brecker Band. He has also been named the Best Drummer by DownBeat magazine multiple times. Watts' contributions to the world of jazz have been significant. His unique style of drumming and his ability to blend different genres of music have made him one of the most respected and sought-after musicians in the industry. He continues to perform and record with his quartet and collaborate with other musicians, cementing his place as one of the greatest jazz drummers of all time.

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