Hilton Ruiz

About

Bebop and Afro-Cuban jazz artist whose premature death eluded a developing legacy of quality collaborations and innovative solo work.

Before Fame

He performed at Carnegie Hall when he was just eight.

Trivia

He injured himself during a fall on Bourbon Street in New Orleans and never recovered from his coma.

Family Life

His family nurtured his talents, beginning his piano lessons when he was eight.

Associated With

He became Roland Kirk's primary pianist in 1974 and continued with that gig until 1977.