Chesney Henry Baker Jr.
Chet Baker was a trumpeter and vocalist whose lyrical, intimate style epitomized West Coast cool jazz. His vulnerability and romantic sensibility made him one of jazz's most beloved and tragic figures. His version of "My Funny Valentine" became his signature, and his legacy endures as one of the most distinctive voices in jazz.
“I don't know why I sing. Maybe it's because I like music and I feel something.”
— Chet Baker
“I don't think about what notes I'm going to play. I just play.”
— Chet Baker
“Let's get lost. Let's get lost in each other's arms.”
— Chet Baker
“Music is the only thing that makes sense.”
— Chet Baker
“I play the way I feel. Some days it's beautiful, some days it's not.”
— Chet Baker
“The beauty of jazz is that you can express exactly who you are.”
— Chet Baker
“You want to play jazz? Then you better live jazz.”
— Chet Baker
“When I play, I try to find something honest. That's all.”
— Chet Baker
“The trumpet is a lonely instrument. And that suits me fine.”
— Chet Baker
“I'd rather play a note that means something than a hundred notes that don't.”
— Chet Baker
Chet Baker Sings
1954
Chet
1959
It Could Happen to You
1958
Chet Baker in New York
1958
Almost Blue
1988