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Ray Brown Ray Brown, born on October 13, 1926, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was an American jazz double bassist known for his impeccable technique, his melodic bass lines, and his influential contributions to the world of jazz. Brown's career spanned over six decades, during which he established himself as one of the most respected and influential bassists in the history of the genre. Brown first gained prominence in the 1940s as a member of the Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker bands, where his solid, swinging bass lines helped define the bebop style. He later went on to play with numerous jazz legends, including Oscar Peterson, Ella Fitzgerald, and Duke Ellington, among many others. One of Brown's most distinctive contributions to jazz was his use of the "walking bass" technique, a style of bass playing that involves playing a steady stream of quarter notes, outlining the harmony of the song and providing a rhythmic foundation for the rest of the band. Brown's mastery of this technique was unparalleled, and he became known as one of the greatest walking bassists in jazz history. In addition to his work as a sideman, Brown also led his own groups and recorded over 100 albums as a bandleader. His music was known for its elegance, its swing, and its ability to blend elements of bebop, swing, and blues into a cohesive and compelling whole. Brown's influence on jazz bass playing is immeasurable. His technical skill, his melodic approach to bass playing, and his ability to create rich, supportive bass lines have had a lasting impact on generations of bassists. He remains one of the most respected and admired musicians in the history of jazz. Ray Brown passed away on July 2, 2002, but his music continues to be celebrated and admired by jazz fans around the world. His legacy as one of the greatest bassists in the history of jazz is secure, and his influence will be felt for many years to come.