Benny Green

The Profile

Benny Green (born 1963) is an American jazz pianist known for a hard bop-rooted, swinging style. He performed with Betty Carter and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and has led acclaimed trios and recordings.

American jazz pianist active since the 1980s; grew up in Berkeley; played with Betty Carter and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers; influenced by Oscar Peterson; leader on albums including Green’s Blues and Testifyin’ (Live at the Village Vanguard).

A warmly positive take on Benny Green highlights his joyful, swinging piano rooted in jazz-blues and stride touches. Influences include Oscar Peterson and Bobby Timmons. The review notes his stints with Betty Carter and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. Green’s Blues is praised as engaging standards plus an original, showcasing a complete, versatile musician.