Scoreload

American jazz pianist, organist, composer, singer, and comedic entertainer whose innovative stride piano techniques and exuberant performances defined the Harlem Renaissance era.Born in New York City, Waller became a professional musician at age 15. He studied under stride pioneer James P. Johnson, composed over 400 songs, and achieved fame through radio broadcasts and films. Despite battling industry exploitation and personal struggles, he created enduring jazz standards before his untimely death at 39.

• Waller was kidnapped in 1926 by Al Capone's associates and forced to play piano for three days at the gangster's birthday party, only released after payment.
• His comedic stage persona masked lifelong struggles: he battled alcoholism, faced financial exploitation by publishers, and had his compositions frequently stolen due to predatory contracts.
• Waller died of pneumonia exacerbated by influenza during a cross-country train journey. A 1943 blizzard delayed medical help, contributing to his death.
• Despite earning substantial income, the IRS seized his assets posthumously for unpaid taxes, leaving his family nearly destitute.