Pianist William McKinley “Red” Garland was born in Dallas, Texas on May 13, 1923. Garland is known for using the “block chord” style of playing and for his work as both a band leader and as a member of Miles Davis’ groups in the1950s.

Garland began his musical training playing clarinet and alto saxophone, and did not begin piano studies until his time in the United States Army during World War II. After his discharge from the army, Garland played around his native state and toured with the ensemble led by trumpeter “Hot Lips” Page. When the tour ended in New York City in 1946, Garland decided to stay on in the Big Apple and worked with Billy Eckstein for time.

Miles Davis hired Garland for his quintet in 1955 and he stayed with the band for about three years, although the relationship between keyboard man and band leader were strained almost from the beginning. In 1958 Garland was replaced by Bill Evans and formed his own trio which he led off and on for more than two decades. Garland’s trio recorded with luminaries like Pepper Adams, Blue Mitchell, Kenny Burrell, Harold Land, Nat Adderley and Ray Barretto.

“Red” Garland passed away at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack in 1984.

Here is a link to a recording by Garland's trio:

"STOMPIN' AT THE SAVOY"