Don Pullen
Pianist
Controversial jazz artist known for his individualistic style that encompassed blues, bebop, and modern jazz.
He began at Johnson C. Smith University intent on having a medical career.
He was often accused of copying Cecil Taylor's style, and no matter how often he denied these charges, they still persisted for his entire life.
His family was musical, and he learned a great deal from his cousin Clyde "Fats" Wright, a professional jazz pianist.
He played with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers in 1972.