Miles Davis Facts

April 2024 · 4 minute read

The Jazz Icon: Miles Davis – Facts About His Life, Career and Legacy

Miles Dewey Davis III, the legendary jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader, is an influential figure in the world of music. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, with an extensive discography of groundbreaking albums. In this article, we will delve into some essential facts about Miles Davis, including his biography, age, relationships, children, height, career, top songs, net worth, and more.

Table of Contents

Biography and Age

Miles Davis was born on May 26, 1926, in Alton, Illinois, and grew up in East St. Louis. He was the second child of Miles Davis, Jr., a dentist, and Cleota Mae (Henry) Davis. His interest in music began at an early age, and Davis received his first trumpet at age 13. He later attended The Juilliard School in New York in 1944 before dropping out to perform with Charlie Parker.

Davis was an innovator in jazz music, pioneering cool jazz, hard bop, and fusion styles. He collaborated with well-known jazz musicians like John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, and Chick Corea.

Miles Davis died at the age of 65 on September 28, 1991, due to a stroke, respiratory failure, and pneumonia.

Relationships and Children

Miles Davis was married three times, with his first marriage being to dancer Frances Taylor. The marriage lasted from 1958 to 1968, and they adopted a son together named Gregory Davis. Davis’ second marriage was to silver screen actress Cicely Tyson, but that marriage ended in 1988. His last marriage was to Jo Gelbard, which lasted until his death in 1991.

Davis has three children from different relationships; his first son was Miles Davis IV, who is a competent drummer and percussionist, Cheryl Davis, a lawyer, and Erin Davis, a musician and record producer.

Height

Miles Davis was known for his impressive talent and musical achievements, but his height may come as a surprise to many. The jazz icon stood at just 5’7″ tall.

Career

Miles Davis had a celebrated career with many significant accomplishments and awards. His debut album was released in 1951, titled “The New Sounds”, and he went on to have a highly successful music career, playing with some of the most respected musicians in the industry.

One of his most influential albums is “Kind of Blue,” released in 1959. The album has sold over four million copies, making it the best-selling jazz album of all time. Another notable album is “Bitches Brew,” which is known for its fusion of jazz with rock, funk, and other genres, breaking new ground for jazz music.

Miles Davis won eight Grammy Awards in different categories, including Best Instrumental Jazz Performance, Best Jazz Performance by a Big Band, Best Jazz Instrumental Album, and more. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a performer, and he was also a member of DownBeat Magazine’s Jazz Hall of Fame.

Top Songs

Miles Davis’ discography is extensive and varied, with a host of jazz standards and classics. Some of his most popular songs include:

– So What
– Freddie Freeloader
– All Blues
– Blue in Green
– Flamenco Sketches
– ‘Round Midnight
– Tutu
– Human Nature

Net Worth

Miles Davis was a highly successful jazz musician and bandleader, and his career spanned several decades. His net worth, according to Celebrity Net Worth, is an estimated $10 million. However, beyond the wealth, his influence on jazz music and popular culture is immeasurable.

Legacy

Miles Davis’ contribution to jazz music is undoubtedly significant, with his influence reaching far beyond his lifetime. Many notable musicians, including Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Carlos Santana, have cited Davis as an inspiration for their own musical styles and creativity.

His innovative approach to jazz music continues to inspire new generations of musicians and jazz fans. In fact, in acknowledgment of Miles Davis’ astounding contribution to jazz, the United States Postal Service issued a Miles Davis commemorative stamp in June 2012.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Miles Davis’ life and career have left an indelible mark on the world of music. He is an icon and inspiration to many musicians worldwide, and his legacy continues to influence the evolution of jazz music today. His talent and innovation have earned him a well-deserved place in the pantheon of great jazz musicians, and his music will undoubtedly endure for many generations to come.

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