Earl Kenneth Hines, known as Earl "Fatha" Hines, was a pioneering American jazz pianist and bandleader, born on December 28, 1903, in Duquesne, Pennsylvania. A central figure in the evolution of jazz piano, Hines was renowned for his "trumpet style" of playing, which involved single-note improvisations akin to horn players, setting a new standard for jazz pianists.

Hines grew up in a musical family, with his father leading the Eureka Brass Band and his stepmother serving as a church organist. Initially trained in classical piano, he shifted his focus to jazz during his teenage years. At 17, he joined Lois Deppe and His Symphonian Serenaders in Pittsburgh, marking the start of his professional career.

In 1925, Hines moved to Chicago, where he collaborated with Louis Armstrong, contributing to landmark recordings like "West End Blues" and "Weather Bird." His innovative piano techniques during these sessions were highly influential, inspiring future generations of jazz musicians.

Hines formed his own big band in the late 1920s, which became the house band at Chicago's Grand Terrace Ballroom. This ensemble was known for its tight ensemble playing and rhythmic drive, gaining national fame through radio broadcasts. In the early 1940s, Hines's band included future bebop legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker.

Despite a career slump in the late 1950s, Hines experienced a resurgence in the 1960s, performing in recitals and recording albums that showcased his enduring virtuosity. He continued to perform and influence the jazz world until his death on April 22, 1983, in Oakland, California.

Throughout his career, Hines received numerous accolades, including induction into the Jazz Hall of Fame and recognition as the World's No. 1 Jazz Pianist multiple times. His legacy as a transformative figure in jazz remains profound, with his style and innovations continuing to inspire musicians worldwide.