Best, Denzil (de Costa) (New York, 27 April 1917 - New York, 24 May 1965)
Drummer and composer
[A childhood friend of Thelonious
Monk’s, Best,] began piano lessons at the age of six, then later took up
trumpet, and by 1940 was performing professionally with Chris Columbus and Joe
Gordon. After a lung disorder was discovered he was advised to cease playing,
and he began working as a pianist; he also played double bass and drums, which
by 1943 had become his main instrument. An engagement with Ben Webster in
1943-4 established his reputation as a drummer, and he was immediately employed
by Coleman Hawkins, with whom he worked from 1944 to 1945. Best then played
with Illinois Jacquet and toured
Jeff Potter
The New Grove Dictionary of Jazz, © Macmillan Reference Ltd 1988