Biography

Dickerson, a Philadelphia native, played a vital role in the evolution of the vibraphone. He is recognized as being a vital part of the instrument’s transition from bebop to more liberated forms of jazz expression. His playing style is unique due to his innovative technique, where he used unusually small mallets positioned close to the hammers. This approach allowed him to unleash notes with remarkable speed and agility. Initially rooted in the realm of hard bop, Dickerson's musical journey took a transformative turn when he found inspiration in the legendary John Coltrane. This led him to explore post-bop jazz during the early 1960s, before he embarked on a decade-long hiatus. Upon his return to the jazz scene in 1976, Dickerson delved into  free jazz, immersing himself in its boundless creativity and improvisational spirit. Through his distinctive style and unwavering exploration, Dickerson has left a permanent mark on the evolving landscape of jazz.