Bobby Few

Bobby Few (December 21, 1935 – January 6, 2021) was an American free jazz pianist.

Few was known for his intensely personal and spiritual approach to improvisation. He began his career playing blues and gospel music before embracing the avant-garde jazz movement. He worked with a wide range of musicians, including Albert Ayler, Booker Ervin, Noah Howard, Alan Silva, Sunny Murray, and Steve Lacy.

Few spent a significant portion of his career in Europe, particularly in Paris, where he developed a strong following. He often performed as a soloist and also led his own ensembles. His playing was characterized by its raw emotion, harmonic freedom, and rhythmic complexity. He was also known for his vocalizations while playing.

Throughout his career, Few recorded numerous albums as a leader and sideman. His recordings often explored themes of spirituality, social justice, and personal experience. He was considered an important, yet often under-recognized, figure in the free jazz landscape.