Joe Turner

Though frequently mistaken for the vocalist Big Joe Turner, the pianist of the same name pursued an entirely separate path rooted in the stride style pioneered by James P. Johnson and Fats Waller, equipped with exceptional technical skill and an excellent feel for swing. Originating from Baltimore, he commenced his piano studies under his mother's guidance at the tender age of five, and after relocating to New York in 1925, quickly gained recognition in Harlem while still in his teens. Serving as an accompanist for Adelaide Hall, he formed a duo initially alongside Alex Hill before partnering with Francis Carter, with whom he and Hall embarked on a European tour in 1931. Staying on the continent until the outbreak of war in 1939 prompted his return to the United States, where he took up singing professionally. Following stints with Sy Oliver's military ensemble during 1944 and 1945, as well as with Rex Stewart in 1946, he made his way back across the Atlantic, living in Hungary during 1948 before establishing residence in Switzerland for the period spanning 1949 to 1962. Making Paris his home from 1962 onward, he held a steady engagement at La Calvados while also performing at various venues across Europe and making sporadic appearances in the U.S., ultimately becoming the final prominent stride pianist still actively performing from his generation. One of the limited recordings currently accessible features a 1984 collaboration with Knocky Parker and his Houserockers, released on the Southland label.