Kenny Drew was born in New York City on August 28, 1928. He started studying classical piano when he was 5. He was introduced to jazz at 12. His influences include Bud Powell, Art Tatum, Fats Waller and Teddy Wilson. Drew attended the High Schools of Music and Art in New York.

Drew’s first professional job was at Pearl Primus’ dance school. During that time, he also played in a local band with Sonny Rollins, Jackie McLean, and Art Taylor. He also played in local jam sessions.

Drew first appeared on a Blue Note recording in January 1950. The album included Howard McGhee, Brew Moore, and J.J. Johnson. In 1953, he made his first album as a band leader. That album included Curly Russell and Art Blakey.

Drew moved to Los Angeles and formed a quartet with Joe Maini, Leroy Vinnegar and Lawrence Marable in 1955. They recorded together that same year with Pacific Jazz. In December of that same year, they recorded another album, this time with Jazz West. The album was called Talkin’ & Walkin’. In 1956, Drew played on Chambers’ Music with Paul Chambers, John Coltrane and Philly Joe Jones.

In 1957, Drew moved back to New York for a few years before moving to Europe. He settled in Copenhagen where he ran a publishing company and continued to play gigs and record.

Drew died died on August 4, 1993.