Ralph Sharon, RIP

[mjzee]

Ralph Sharon, Tony Bennett’s longtime accompanist, who in the early 1960s persuaded Mr. Bennett to sing a song originally written for a Wagnerian contralto — about the fond intersection of a large muscle in the chest with a Northern California city — and in so doing created a Grammy-winning standard, died on March 31 at his home in Boulder, Colo. He was 91.

NYT obituary

[paul secor]

I've probably heard him many times over the years, but never took notice of what he played. I guess that's an appreciation of the art of what he did - accompanying singers (mostly one singer).

[Hardbopjazz]

RIP.

[Clunky]

He lead a decent session with Lucky Thompson and Eddie Costa !!! called "Around The World In Jazz" - Rama, reissued by Freshsound. I have it on a nice Columbia UK pressing which sounds lovely

[duaneiac]

He recorded a series of piano trio albums each saluting the work of a different composer. They are mainstream jazz, but each is worth a listen.

[Justin V]

I've meant for a while to pick up one of his leader dates after hearing him on Johnny Hartman's Songs from the Heart. Thank you for the music, Mr. Sharon, and rest in peace.