Actor
Thelonious Monk
- Born: 10 October 1917, Rocky Mount, North Carolina, USA
- Estimated net worth: 10 million USD
Thelonious Monk was a renowned jazz pianist and composer, known for his unique improvisational style and distinctive melodies. He is celebrated for iconic works such as 'Round Midnight' and 'Blue Monk.' Monk's innovative approach to jazz has had a lasting…
Thelonious Monk: best films and shows
About Thelonious Monk
Thelonious Monk was a renowned jazz pianist and composer, known for his unique improvisational style and distinctive melodies. He is celebrated for iconic works such as 'Round Midnight' and 'Blue Monk.' Monk's innovative approach to jazz has had a lasting impact on the genre, making him one of the most influential figures in music history.
- Born
- 10 October 1917, Rocky Mount, North Carolina, USA
- Died
- 17 February 1982
- Known for
- Acting
- Height
- 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
- Spouses
- Nellie Monk (1947-1982)
- Children
- 3 children, names not publicly known
- Parents
- Thelonious Sr. Monk, Barbara Monk
- Estimated net worth
- 10 million USD
Fun facts about Thelonious Monk
- Thelonious Monk was known for his eccentric style, often wearing hats and colorful clothing during performances.
- Monk was the second jazz musician ever to be featured on the cover of Time magazine in 1964.
Famous Thelonious Monk quotes
“I don't care if it sounds like a cat in a tree.”
“Jazz is not just a music, it's a way of life.”
“The piano ain't got no wrong notes.”
Thelonious Monk filmography
Cast (16)
| Year | Title | Character | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Rewind & Play Movie | Self (archive footage) | 7.3 |
| 2022 | Monk & Pannonica: An American Story Movie | Self - Jazz Musician (archive footage) | 8.0 |
| 2019 | Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool Movie | Self - Musician (archive footage) | 7.1 |
| 2019 | Blue Note Records: Beyond the Notes Movie | Self (archive footage) | 6.7 |
| 2018 | It Must Schwing: The Blue Note Story Movie | Self | 8.1 |
| 2013 | Thelonious Monk: Paris 1969 Movie | Unknown character | 10.0 |
| 2012 | Thelonious Monk Quartet at Salle Pleyel, Paris, 1969 Movie | Himself | |
| 2011 | Public Speaking Movie | Self (archive footage) | 7.0 |
| 2006 | Jazz Icons: Thelonious Monk Live in '66 Movie | Unknown character | |
| 2003 | Piano Blues Movie | Self (archive footage) | 6.5 |
Show 6 more creditsShow fewer
| Year | Title | Character | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Thelonious Monk: Straight, No Chaser Movie | Self (archive footage) | 7.4 |
| 1986 | Music in Monk Time Movie | Self | |
| 1969 | Heads Movie | Self | |
| 1968 | Monk Movie | Self | 5.0 |
| 1968 | Monk in Europe Movie | Himself | |
| 1960 | Jazz on a Summer's Day Movie | Self | 7.3 |
Crew (2)
| Year | Title | Role | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1959 | Dangerous Love Affairs Movie | Original Music Composer · Sound | 6.5 |
| TBA | Little Red Robin Hood Movie | Music · Sound |
Latest releases
- Rewind & Play2023 / TMDB 7.3
- Monk & Pannonica: An American Story2022 / TMDB 8.0
- Miles Davis: Birth of the Cool2019 / TMDB 7.1
- Blue Note Records: Beyond the Notes2019 / TMDB 6.7
- It Must Schwing: The Blue Note Story2018 / TMDB 8.1
- Thelonious Monk: Paris 19692013 / TMDB 10.0
Questions about Thelonious Monk
What are Thelonious Monk's most famous compositions?
Some of Thelonious Monk's most famous compositions include 'Round Midnight,' 'Blue Monk,' and 'Straight, No Chaser.' These pieces are considered standards in the jazz repertoire.
Did Thelonious Monk win any major awards?
Yes, Thelonious Monk received several prestigious awards, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993 and the National Medal of Arts in 1993 for his contributions to music.
What was Thelonious Monk's early career like?
Thelonious Monk began his career in the 1940s, performing in clubs in New York City. He gained recognition as a member of the bebop movement, collaborating with other jazz greats like Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker.
What is Thelonious Monk's legacy in jazz music?
Thelonious Monk's legacy in jazz music is profound, as he is credited with expanding the harmonic language of jazz. His unique style and compositions continue to influence musicians and are celebrated in jazz education.
What was Thelonious Monk's first recording?
Thelonious Monk's first recording was in 1944 with the label Blue Note Records. He recorded the track 'Thelonious' which showcased his innovative approach to jazz.
How many albums did Thelonious Monk release?
Thelonious Monk released over 25 albums during his career, with many becoming classics in the jazz genre. His works are still widely listened to and studied today.
What is Thelonious Monk's net worth?
Thelonious Monk's estimated net worth is around 10 million USD, reflecting his significant contributions to music and lasting popularity.
Did Thelonious Monk collaborate with other artists?
Yes, Thelonious Monk collaborated with several notable artists throughout his career, including John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Art Blakey, contributing to many landmark recordings in jazz.