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American jazz pianist and composer, a revolutionary figure in modern jazz known for his impressionistic harmonies, introspective style, and profound influence on piano trio format.Born in Plainfield, New Jersey. Graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University. Key member of Miles Davis's 'Kind of Blue' sessions (1959). Led seminal trios, notably with bassist Scott LaFaro and drummer Paul Motian. Recorded landmark albums including 'Sunday at the Village Vanguard' (1961). Won seven Grammy Awards, including two posthumously. Struggled with drug addiction throughout career.

• Evans struggled with severe heroin and cocaine addiction for decades, which drained his finances and contributed to periods of professional instability.
• His brother Harry Evans died by suicide in 1979; Bill dedicated his final album 'We Will Meet Again' to him but never recovered emotionally, dying less than a year later.
• Evans's groundbreaking trio with Scott LaFaro redefined jazz ensemble interplay through egalitarian improvisation; LaFaro's death in a 1961 car accident devastated Evans, causing a year-long hiatus.
• He died at age 51 from a hemorrhaging ulcer, cirrhosis, bronchial pneumonia, and untreated hepatitis, complicated by long-term substance abuse.
• Despite personal turmoil, Evans maintained intense discipline, practicing hours daily and famously demanding perfectionism in recordings.