Clifford Brown (1930–1956) was an American jazz trumpeter and composer known for his exceptional talent and lyrical playing style.

Clifford Brown

Brown emerged during the 1950s as a prominent figure in the hard bop movement. He played in the first incarnation of the Art Blakey Quintet which later became the Jazz Messengers. He played with many leading musicians and co-led a band with Max Roach. His compositions such as “Joy Spring” and "Daahoud," became jazz standards. Tragically, his life was cut short at the age of 25 in a car accident. Despite his brief career, Brown's impact on music was immense, and he remains celebrated as one of the greatest trumpet players in the history of jazz.