Danny Mixon facts for kids

Daniel Asbury Mixon (born August 19, 1949) is an American jazz pianist. He is known for his amazing piano skills and his long career in the jazz world.

Early Life and Musical Start

Daniel Mixon was born in Harlem, a famous neighborhood in New York City. He first started as a tap dancer. He went to the Ruth Williams Dance Studio to learn how to dance. Later, he attended the High School of Performing Arts. His main subject there was dance.

However, Daniel soon changed his focus to playing the piano. This happened after he visited the Apollo Theater with his grandfather. Seeing jazz artists perform there truly inspired him to become a musician.

Beginning His Jazz Career

In 1966, when Daniel was just 17 years old, he got a big opportunity. He was invited to play with trumpet player Sam Brown's band. They were backing up the famous group Patti LaBelle & the Blue Bells. This was at Reggie's Cocktail Lounge in Atlantic City.

From 1967 to 1970, Mixon worked with jazz artist Joe Lee Wilson. After that, he regularly played with Betty Carter during 1971 and 1972.

Playing with Famous Musicians

Daniel Mixon formed his own jazz trio. He also recorded music with a group called the Piano Choir. Throughout his career, he has worked with many important jazz musicians. These include Kenny Dorham, Cecil Payne, and Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers.

He also played with Frank Foster, Grant Green, and Pharoah Sanders in 1975. Other famous artists he worked with are Joe Williams (jazz singer), Eddie Jefferson, and Dee Dee Bridgewater.

In 1976, Mixon joined Charles Mingus' band. He then played with Dannie Richmond in the late 1970s. He also toured the United States with Yusef Lateef. For a few years, he was part of the Lionel Hampton Big Band.

Since his twenties, Mixon has continuously worked with Frank Foster. He was a pianist for Foster's Big Band, Frank Foster's Loud Minority, and his quartet, the Non-Electric Company.

Danny Mixon's Recordings

Danny Mixon has played piano on many recordings. He appeared with Hank Crawford on the CDs Tight and After Dark. He has also recorded music with his own group, The Danny Mixon Trio. His most recent CD is called On My Way.

Awards and Recognition

In 2004, Danny Mixon received a special award. The National Jazz Museum in Harlem honored him as a legendary pianist. This was part of their “Harlem Speaks” series, which celebrates Harlem Heroes.

In September 2007, Danny was honored again. He received an award at the 18th Annual Legends Purple Carpet Awards. This event celebrates people who have contributed to the arts and entertainment industry.

Musical Director and Performances

Danny Mixon was also the musical director of the Lenox Lounge in Harlem. He regularly played there with the Danny Mixon Trio. The Lenox Lounge closed in 2012.

In 2016, Danny Mixon performed with Antoinette Montague. They played at the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival in Marcus Garvey Park in New York City. He also performed at several other venues in New York City that year.

Selected Music Recordings

As the Main Artist

• Mixin' With Mixon (1983)
• Building Bridges (2004)
• On My Way (2003)
• Pass It On (2015)

With The Piano Choir

• Handscapes (1974)

As a Supporting Musician

With Betty Carter

• The Betty Carter Album (1976)

With Hank Crawford

• Tight (1996)
• After Dark (1998)
• The World of Hank Crawford (2000)

With Charles Mingus

• Cumbia & Jazz Fusion (1978)

With Dannie Richmond

• Ode to Mingus (1979)

With Pharoah Sanders

• Live in Paris (1975) (Lost ORTF Recordings) (2020)

With Joe Lee Wilson

• Without A Song (1978)