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Milt Jackson was an American jazz vibraphonist and composer, renowned for his warm, blues-drenched sound, lyrical improvisations, and pivotal role in the development of bebop and hard bop. He was a founding member and central voice of the legendary Modern Jazz Quartet (MJQ).Born in Detroit, Jackson rose to prominence in the bebop era of the 1940s, playing with icons like Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker. His mastery of the vibraphone redefined the instrument's role in jazz. He co-founded the Modern Jazz Quartet in 1952, achieving global fame and critical acclaim for their sophisticated blend of jazz improvisation and classical structures. Jackson maintained a prolific solo career alongside his MJQ work, collaborating with countless jazz greats and leaving an indelible mark on the music.

• Jackson was nicknamed "Bags" due to the bags under his eyes. His signature bluesy, soulful style became known as the "funky blues".
• He initially played piano and guitar before discovering the vibraphone in high school. His unique sound was partly due to his use of motorless vibes and softer mallets.
• Despite the MJQ's highly structured, chamber jazz approach, Jackson often expressed a preference for looser, more blues-oriented jam sessions, leading to occasional tensions within the group.
• He was a prolific composer. His best-known composition is "Bags' Groove," an enduring jazz standard recorded by Miles Davis and countless others. Other notable compositions include "The Cylinder" and "Bluesology".
• Jackson continued performing actively until shortly before his death. He passed away in Manhattan from liver cancer on October 9, 1999.