Benjamin E. "Benny" Payne, born on June 18, 1907, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a prominent American jazz pianist, singer, and arranger. He began learning piano at the age of 12 and worked as a church organist in his youth. Payne's professional career started in 1926, and by 1928, he was performing with Wilbur Sweatman's band. His mentor, Fats Waller, recorded piano duets with him in 1929, including "St. Louis Blues" and "After You've Gone."

From 1929 to 1931, Payne was involved in touring shows like Blackbirds of 1929 in Europe and worked as an accompanist for singers Elisabeth Welch and Gladys Bentley. In 1930, he joined the Duke Ellington Orchestra as a singer, contributing to recordings such as "Wang Wang Blues" and "Rockin' Chair."

Payne's most notable collaboration was with Cab Calloway, serving as the regular pianist from 1931 until he joined the Army in 1943. He provided stability and contributed significantly to the rhythm section of Calloway's band. After his military service, Payne rejoined Calloway until 1946. He later worked with Pearl Bailey and led his own trio in New York.

In the 1950s, Payne became the pianist and musical director for singer Billy Daniels, and they were among the first African-American entertainers to appear on national television. Payne also appeared on Broadway in 1964 in a revival of "Golden Boy" with Daniels and Sammy Davis, Jr. He recorded as a sideman with Calloway and Daniels and led one record date, a 1955 album for Kapp.

Benny Payne passed away on January 2, 1986, in Los Angeles, California, leaving behind a legacy as a consummate pianist and arranger in the jazz world.