For other persons named Thomas Flanagan, see Thomas Flanagan
(disambiguation).
Thomas Lee Flanagan (b. March 16, 1930 in Detroit, Michigan - d.
November 16, 2001 in New York City) was an American jazz pianist,
particularly remembered as an accompanist of Ella Fitzgerald. He played
on a number of critically acclaimed recordings, such as John Coltrane's
Giant Steps, Sonny Rollins' Saxophone Colossus and The Incredible Jazz
Guitar of Wes Montgomery.
The Tommy Flanagan Trio (with bassist Wilbur Little and drummer Elvin
Jones) released their first album, Tommy Flanagan Trio Overseas, in
1957. As an accompaniest, Flanagan worked with Ella Fitzgerald from
1963–65 and 1968–78. But beginning in 1975, Flanagan began once again
to perform and record as a leader. He continued to work with other
players, however, forming a trio with Tal Farlow and Red Mitchell,
amongst other projects.
Flanagan's style was both modest and exceptionally musical. Although he
would not be considered an innovator, such as Bill Evans or McCoy
Tyner, Flanagan embodied many of the most important qualities
associated with jazz: swing, harmonic sophistication, melodic
invention, bluesy feel and humour. Interestingly, he appeared on a
number of highly innovative albums.
During his career, Flanagan was nominated for four Grammy Awards ― two
for Best Jazz Performance (Group) and two for Best Jazz Performance
(Soloist). He died on November 16, 2001, of an arterial aneurysm.
