Miles Davis — Timeline
Key moments in the life of Miles Davis.
1926
Born Miles Dewey Davis III on May 26 in Alton, Illinois; family moved to East St. Louis, Illinois
1944
Moved to New York City to study at Juilliard School of Music; began performing in bebop clubs
1949
Recorded 'Birth of the Cool' sessions, pioneering cool jazz and establishing his innovative approach to improvisation
1957
Recorded 'Kind of Blue' sessions began; formed first Great Quintet with John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, and others
1959
Released 'Kind of Blue' album, which became one of the best-selling jazz albums and introduced modal jazz to wider audiences
1964
Formed his Second Great Quintet with Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams
1969
Released 'In a Silent Way,' marking his exploration of electric jazz and fusion music
1970
Released 'Bitches Brew,' a landmark fusion album that brought jazz to rock audiences and achieved platinum sales
1991
Received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his profound influence on jazz and music history
1991
Died on September 28 in Santa Monica, California, at age 65, leaving an unparalleled legacy in jazz innovation