Johnny O'Neal Trio

Sat, Apr 18

Johnny O'Neal is a world-renowned pianist and vocalist, known for his soulful, personable, and even humorous performances and virtuosic improvisations. Originally hailing from Detroit, his concerts regularly feature many styles, from jazz and traditional blues to pop, R&B and even gospel music. His extremely versatile resume speaks for itself.  He has performed or recorded with Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, Anita O'Day, Carmen McCrae, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, Clark Terry, Stan Getz, Sonny Stitt, and many more. O'Neal started making a splash in the music world early on as a prodigious young teenager winning the 2nd Annual James Cleveland youth gospel piano competition in Kansas City.  Then several years later he was discovered by the legendary bassist Ray Brown who facilitated and played on O'Neal's first album, "Coming Out." Other notable performances include a solo piano concert Carnegie Hall in 1985 opening for Oscar Peterson and Cecil Taylor, and touring as singer with the Ray Charles Band following Mr. Charles' transition.  In the middle of his career, O'Neal was so busy he even had to turn down certain notable opportunities like being the featured singer on tour with the Count Basie Orchestra and playing in Betty Carter's band. O'Neal continues to make waves in the modern era.  He played the part of Art Tatum (at the recommendation of Oscar Peterson) in the 2005 Oscar-winning film "Ray," performing and recording with artists such as Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Harry Connick Jr., and Ron Carter.  He's played the Blue Note in Beijing four times since it's opening in 2018.  As well as performances in Shanghai, annual trips to Europe, performances in South America, Canada, and all across the United States.