Marc Cary | Jazz Birthdays – Jan. 29

Born January 29, 1967, Marc Cary has gained renown as one of the most original jazz pianists in New York City. Possessing an electric taste and strong post-bop foundation, Cary has also been influenced by Afro-Cuban rhythms, electronic groove music and more.

Growing up in Washington D.C.’s go-go music scene, it wasn’t until Cary moved to New York City that his rhythmic style – influenced by Randy Weston and McCoy Tyner - was introduced to broader audiences through his work as a pianist and arranger for Abbey Lincoln.

Dizzy Gillespie, Betty Carter, Arthur Taylor, Carlos Garnett, Erykah Badu, Meshell Ndegeocello, Stefon Harris, Lauryn Hill, Ani DiFranco, Jackie McLean, Q-Tip and Carmen McRae have all played and/or recorded with Cary.

Billboard/BET named Cary “Best New Jazz Artist Award” in 2000 and he has received Grammy nominations for his work with Roy Hargrove, Betty Carter, Stefon Harris and Abbey Lincoln.

Learn more about Cary here.