As a pianist, composer, and bandleader, Horace Silver was a very influential force for over 30 years.

Silver was an original in all areas; his piano playing sounded nothing like Bud Powell (unlike most jazz pianists who matured during the 1950s), and his soulful style epitomized both hard bop and soul jazz, bringing soul and funk into jazz.

As a composer, Silver had many successes with “Song For My Father” being among his most popular songs.

On this performance from circa 1983, Horace Silver is featured playing “Song For My Father” with his rhythm section (bassist Bob Maize and drummer Carl Burnett), really digging into the song during an extensive solo that includes a few song quotes including “Nature Boy” and plenty of creative ideas.

-Scott Yanow