Herbie Nichols
Born in San Juan Hill, Manhattan, New York on January 3, 1919, Herbie Nichols
was a jazz pianist who is best known for writing “Lady Sings the Blues.” Growing
up in Harlem, he became a Dixieland pianist before pursuing all forms of jazz.
He began his musical journey in 1937 as a member of the Royal Barons and
performed live at Milton’s Playhouse, where he befriended Thelonious Monk,
Lester Young, and Dizzie Gillespie. Herbie Nichols was drafted into the army in
1941, but continued his music career when he was discharged two years later. His
unique style – which blended be-bop, bl...
