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Hazel Scott, a classical and jazz musician originally from Trinidad and Tobago, emerged as one of America's leading pianists of her era. Born on June 11, 1920, this prodigious talent began playing piano at age 3 under her mother's tutelage. In 1924, she relocated with her family to the U.S., where by age 8, she was performing in New York City and earning scholarships to study classical music at the Juilliard School of Music. Her jazz skills were honed under the guidance of Art Tatum and Teddy Wilson. Complementing her exceptional piano abilities with a warm singing voice and a glamorous stage presence, she became a club and radio sensation by the late 1930s, sharing the stage with legends like Count Basie. She was known for her swinging renditions of classical pieces. Hazel appeared in Broadway shows such as "Singing Out the News" and "Priorities of 1942," and performed twice at Carnegie Hall. As an occasional actress, she was featured in musical films during the wartime era, including "Something to Shout About" (1943), "I Dood It" (1943), and "Broadway Rhythm" (1944), while also releasing numerous albums at the height of her career. Her biggest hit was "Tico Tico," and her infectious boogie-woogie style gained wide popularity in the 1940s, showcasing her remarkable versatility across jazz, classical, and blues genres. In 1945, Hazel married Rev. Adam Clayton Powell Jr., a prominent Congressman, preacher, and editor. She broke barriers as the first Black woman to host her own television show in 1950, though it was canceled within months. Known for her outspoken nature, she faced accusations of Communist sympathies. Hazel steadfastly refused to perform in segregated venues and was an outspoken critic of McCarthyism and racial discrimination. After her divorce from Powell, she moved to Paris in the 1960s, where she performed freely and experienced racial equality. Upon returning to the U.S., she embarked on a second television career with guest roles on shows like "Julia" (1968) and "The Bold Ones: The New Doctors" (1969). Hazel Scott continued to perform in clubs until she passed away from cancer in 1981.
