Davis, Miles (Dewey, Jr)

US jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader. He was one of the most influential and innovative figures in jazz. He pioneered bebop with Charlie Parker in 1945, cool jazz in the 1950s, and jazz-rock fusion from the late 1960s. His albums include Birth of the Cool (1957; recorded 1949 and 1950), Milestones (1958), Sketches of Spain (1960), Bitches Brew (1969), and Tutu (1985).

Davis played in Charlie Parker's group 1946–48. In 1948 he began an association with composer and arranger Gil Evans that was to last throughout his career. His quintet in 1955 featured the saxophone player John Coltrane, who recorded with Davis until 1961; for example, Kind of Blue (1959). In 1968 Davis introduced electric instruments to his arrangements, adding electronic devices to his trumpet and more percussion to his band. He later used disco backings, recorded pop songs, and collaborated with rock musicians.