Thomas “Fats” Waller was born in New York on May 21, 1904. His father was a Baptist minister. Waller studied classical piano and organ. He played the reed organ at his father’s religious services and he played piano at school. Waller studied under James P. Johnson. When Waller was 18, Johnson encouraged to start making piano rolls for player pianos.

Waller was discovered when he played a party for George Gershwin in 1934. A Victor Records executive at the party was so impressed with Waller that he signed him to the label.

Waller has influenced many jazz pianist. Here’s a 1941 film performance with Myra Johnson.