Fats Waller.

Courtesy of Cynthia Cesso/CTSIMAGES.

 

“Handful of Keys”

Fats Waller

1929

A consummate showman and prolific composer, Waller made his most lasting impact as a stride pianist. His tireless left hand set the driving pace while the right served up delicate figures that continue to dazzle pianists. One musician marveled that Waller seemed able to “think in two directions.”