Sullivan Fortner is one of the most adored, influential and innovative pianists of his generation. It is hard to overstate the exuberance and awe expressed by other musicians when talking about Sullivan Fortner. At 40 years old, he is one of a small handful of pianists who have moved the instrument and its potential forward. And by doing so, he’s demonstrated that innovation can happen from within the tradition of what came before rather than reinventing it outright.
But when we spoke recently for The Third Story podcast, he explained that a life in music was hardly a foregone conclusion. In fact, he seriously considered becoming a doctor, and didn't choose music until almost the last possible moment.
Here he tells the story.
Find the complete conversation on The Third Story podcast
