William John Evans (better known as Bill Evans) (August 16, 1929 – September 15, 1980) was one of the most famous and influential American jazz pianists of 20th-century. His use of impressionist harmony, his inventive interpretation of traditional jazz repertoire, and his syncopated and polyrhythmic melodic lines influenced a generation of pianists, including Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Denny ZeitlinDenny Zeitlin's video titled "Three musical giants" and Keith Jarrett, as well as as guitarists Lenny Breau and Pat Metheny. The music of Bill Evans continues to inspire younger pianists like Fred Hersch, Esbjörn Svensson, Bill Charlap, Brad Mehldau,Brad Mehldau was influenced by Bill Evans according to Answers.com Geoffrey Keezer and Lyle Mays. Evans is an inductee of the Down Beat Jazz Hall of Fame..