Oscar Pettiford, born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, United States, on September 30,
1922, was an American jazz double bassist, cellist, and composer who lived until
1960. Raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he performed in his family's band before
learning piano at age 12 and double bass at age 14. In 1942, he joined Charlie
Barnet's orchestra, gaining national attention in 1943 after recording “The Man
I Love” alongside Coleman Hawkins. He performed in early bop jam sessions at
Minton's Playhouse alongside Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk, and served as
principal bassist for the Duke ...