john birks gillespie

[Sonia]

United States jazz trumpeter and exponent of bebop (1917-1993)

[Williebit]

John Birks Dizzy Gillespie was an influential American jazz musician, particularly known for his trumpet playing and for his huge contribution to the development of the bebop and Afro-Cubic jazz styles. He was also a composer, bandleader, and singer, and was recognized for his bent trumpets bell and his distinctive puffed-out cheeks while performing. Born on October 21, 1917, Gillespies career spanned five decades before his death on January 6, 1993. His innovative techniques and compositions have made him one of the greatest figures in jazz history.