Jazz pianist like Art Tatem and Bill Evans explore the tone and qualities of the keyboard with amazing skill. All the great jazz players listen to Hobby Hancock, Chick Career, and one of my personal favorites, Oscar Peterson.
Musicians like my old friend, the late great Nicky Hopkins, took piano to new heights when working with bands like the Rolling Stones, Jeff and the Beatles. Johnny Johnson, a wonderful person, inspired a whole generation of rock piano players by bridging the gap between the blues and rock. This worked on the classic Chuck Berry of the late 50s and early 60s.
Another important piano player to bridge the gap between gospel, blues, R&B, and rock and roll, is Lionel Richie. He does not sing too bad, either. Pinetop Perkins who plays with Muddy Waters is another great player and also a wonderful person.
There are many great keyboard players you can turn to for inspiration, in many different fields, Moss Allison, Gath Hudson, Chuck Lovell, now playing with the Rolling Stones. Matt Nafton, a wonderful blues player. They are all playing for many people. They are all great players in their own right.
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