Biography of McCoy Tyner

It's hard to imagine what John Coltrane's classic '60s quartet would have sounded like without the presence of pianist McCoy Tyner. He was just a youngster, not yet 21, when he joined the acclaimed hard-bop Jazztet of Art Farmer and Benny Golson. His prodigous technique soon landed him a job with Coltrane, and from 1960 to 1966 Tyner occupied the piano bench in one of jazzdom's most spectacular and hard-working groups. His was an inventive, expansive sound that breathed excitement into Trane's lengthy modal improvisations, employing thunderous right-hand chords that served to anchor and propel the music at the same time. In many ways McCoy was the glue that held this explosive group together, providing a flexible foundation for the saxophonist's free flights while complementing drummer Elvin Jones and bassist Jimmy Garrison with his percussive dynamism.Subsequent solo recordings for Blue Note, Milestone, Impulse, and others have not been so fiery as the early '60s were, but Tyner has shared Coltrane's penchant for African themes and has also gone to the music of Asia for thematic material and instrumentation. As a leader, he has had a consistent and well-rounded career, often applying his distinctive touch to straight jazz standards in piano-trio formats when he's not pursuing modal or avant-garde settings. McCoy is still a busy club and festival performer, collaborating with the biggest names in jazz and leading a variety of groups as he continues to hone his bold piano style. ~ Myles Boisen