Duke Pearson (1932–1980), pianist, composer, arranger and key Blue Note A&R voice of the 1960s. His songbook—“Jeannine,” “Cristo Redentor,” “Idle Moments,” “Sweet Honey Bee”—melds gospel glow with hard-bop craft. As producer/organiser he shaped sessions for Donald Byrd, Grant Green and more. Essential leader dates: Wahoo!, Sweet Honey Bee, The Right Touch.