2.8K views · 82 reactions | Pianist and composer Fats Waller, whose signature stride style paved the way for the modern jazz piano, was born on this day—May 21—in 1904. Waller performed at Carnegie Hall three times between 1928 and 1942. Photo courtesy of the #CHRoseArchives | Carnegie Hall | Facebook

Celebating jazz piano virtuoso, organist, composer and grand entertainer, Fats Waller's birthday who was born on May 21, 1904 in Harlem, NY. He became one of the most popular and influential performers of his era and a master of stride piano playing, finding critical and commercial success in both the United States and abroad, particularly in Europe. Waller was also a prolific songwriter, with many of his compositions becoming huge commercial successes. His technique and attention to decorative