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Thelonious Monk was a groundbreaking American jazz pianist and composer, and "Ruby, My Dear" is one of his well-known compositions. Here are some interesting facts about Thelonious Monk and the composition "Ruby, My Dear":

1. Innovative Pianist: Thelonious Monk is celebrated for his innovative approach to the piano. His unique playing style included percussive attacks, unusual chord voicings, and distinctive use of dissonance.

2. "Ruby, My Dear": The composition "Ruby, My Dear" is one of Monk's most famous ballads. It was composed in 1947 and is known for its emotional depth and lyrical beauty. The title is said to be a dedication to his first love, Ruby Richardson.

3. Dedication to His Wife: While some sources suggest that "Ruby, My Dear" was dedicated to his first love, others believe that Monk later dedicated the piece to his wife, Nellie. The exact dedication remains a bit ambiguous.

4. BeBop Pioneer: Monk was a key figure in the development of bebop, a complex and highly improvisational style of jazz that emerged in the 1940s. He played a crucial role in shaping the language of bebop through his compositions and performances.

5. Unconventional Appearance: Monk was known for his distinctive appearance, often seen wearing eccentric hats and sunglasses. His unorthodox style extended beyond his music into his personal fashion choices.

6. Challenges with the Establishment: Monk faced some challenges with the jazz establishment early in his career. His idiosyncratic playing style was not always well-received, and at times, club owners and critics didn't fully understand or appreciate his contributions to jazz.

7. Recording Career: Monk's recording career began in the late 1940s, and he recorded prolifically for several labels, including Blue Note and Riverside. Many of his albums are now considered classics and have had a lasting impact on the jazz genre.

8. Monk's Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz: In 1986, Monk's son Thelonious Monk, Jr. established the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz in memory of his father. The institute is dedicated to jazz education and promoting the legacy of Thelonious Monk.

9. Posthumous Recognition: Thelonious Monk was posthumously awarded a Pulitzer Prize Special Citation in 2006. This recognition highlighted his significant contributions to jazz and solidified his place as one of the most influential figures in the genre.

Thelonious Monk's legacy continues to influence and inspire jazz musicians and enthusiasts around the world. "Ruby, My Dear" remains a timeless piece in the jazz repertoire.