Biography
Bobby Timmons became so famous for the gospel and funky blues clichés in his solos and compositions that his skills as a Bud Powell-inspired bebop player have been long forgotten. After emerging from the Philadelphia jazz scene, Timmons worked with Kenny Dorham (1956), Chet Baker, Sonny Stitt, and the Maynard Ferguson Big Band. He was partly responsible for the commercial success of both Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and Cannonball Adderley’s Quintet. For Blakey (who he was with during 1958-1959), Timmons wrote the classic “Moanin'” and, after joining Adderley in 1959, his song “This Here” (followed later by “Dat Dere”) became a big hit; it is little wonder that Adderley was distressed when, in 1960, Timmons decided to return to the Jazz Messengers. “Dat Dere” particularly caught on when Oscar Brown, Jr. wrote and recorded lyrics that colorfully depicted his curious son. Timmons, who was already recording as a leader for Riverside, soon formed his own trio but was never able to gain the commercial success that his former bosses enjoyed. Stereotyped as a funky pianist (although an influence on many players including Les McCann, Ramsey Lewis, and much later on Benny Green), Timmons’ career gradually declined. He continued working until his death at age 38 from cirrhosis of the liver. ~ Scott Yanow