Calvin Keys facts for kids

Calvin Keys (born February 6, 1942 – died April 14, 2024) was a talented American jazz guitarist. He became well-known for the albums he released with Black Jazz Records, a special record company.

About Calvin Keys

Calvin Keys was born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1942. He grew up to become a skilled musician, playing the electric guitar. His music career was quite long, lasting from 1969 until he passed away in 2024. He was known for his unique style in jazz and a related music style called soul jazz. Calvin Keys died at the age of 82 in Berkeley, California, after having a stroke.

Playing with Music Stars

Throughout his career, Calvin Keys had the chance to play and record with many famous musicians. These included legendary artists like Ray Charles, Ahmad Jamal, and Jimmy Smith. He also performed with John Handy, Bobby Hutcherson, Eddie Marshall, Sonny Stitt, Pharoah Sanders, Joe Henderson, and Leon Williams. Playing with such a variety of artists showed how versatile and respected he was in the jazz world.

Calvin Keys' Albums

Calvin Keys released several albums where he was the main artist, meaning he led the band. These albums helped show off his guitar skills and unique musical ideas.

Albums as the Leader

• Shawn-Neeq (Black Jazz, 1971)
• Proceed with Caution! (Black Jazz, 1974)
• Criss Cross (Ovation, 1976)
• Electric Keys (Wide Hive, 2013)
• Simply Calvin (Lifeforce Jazz, 2022)
• Blue Keys (Wide Hive, 2022)

Playing with Other Artists

Calvin Keys also played as a "sideman" on many albums. This means he was part of another artist's band for their recordings.

• With Ahmad Jamal
  • Recorded Live at Oil Can Harry's (Catalyst, 1976)
  • Steppin Out with a Dream (20th Century Fox, 1976)
  • Night Song (Motown, 1980)

• With Other Musicians
  • Gene Russell, Talk to My Lady (Black Jazz, 1973)
  • Doug Carn, Adam's Apple (Black Jazz, 1974)
  • James Newton Howard, Dying Young (Arista, 1991)