Sonny Clark Trio

Conrad Yeatis "Sonny" Clark (July 21, 1931 – January 13, 1963) was an American hard bop pianist. An underappreciated jazz artist during his time, Clark's work has become much more widely known after his death. Strongly influenced by Bud Powell, Clark is known for his unique touch, sense of melody and complex, hard-swinging style.

As a band leader, it's Clark's albums Sonny Clark Trio (1957), with Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones, and Cool Struttin' (1958), that are often considered his masterpieces. Sonny Clark Trio (1960) with George Duvivier and Max Roach is also considered among his finest. Although his compositions were relatively rare, the few that were recorded have achieved a cult following, most notably among Japanese jazz enthusiasts. A drug addict, Clark died of a heroin overdose in New York City.