SLAM STEWART REMEMBERS ERROLL GARNER

I treasure my memories of Erroll Garner...his endearing elfin grin, his humorous wit and his incredible ability to attain the sound of an entire symphony when he was playing. He was always composing. He would weave intricate harmonies into a simple song until it became an exquisite concerto of memorable beauty. He took great delight in surprising me with rhythmic innovations and I remember fondly how he would look up at me for approval.

During our days on 52nd Street, we used to hang out together at the White Rose Bar with all of the other musicians... the drinks were inexpensive and the food was free. While we were playing The Three Deuces, I took my quartet into the Strand Theater with Erroll on piano, Johnny Collins on guitar and Harold West on drums. We played all the theater shows then went on to The Deuces until about two in the morning. After that, Erroll and I joined Art Tatum and we went uptown to Harlem to after-hours spots where we all played some more. The great Tatum had a few favorite pianists and Erroll was one of them. Erroll also had great admiration for Tatum. They would get into a 'cutting' session and would try to outdo one another. Those places were always full of musicians who were anxious to play but not one pianist ever dared to play a note when those two 'Gods' were in the house. The memories I have of the two of them playing are priceless.

Erroll always gave me credit for helping him get in the 'big time' but he would have achieved that anyway. I knew the first time I heard him play that he was a giant! I saw Erroll only occasionally over the years but the love and admiration we felt was always there. He was my brother. The unforgettable sound of Erroll Garner will live forever!