One of the most popular performers on the jazz scene in the '20s and '30s, Fats Waller's jovial presence often betrayed his skill as a pianist and composer. A protégé of piano giant James P. Johnson, the New Yorker cut his teeth as a club musician before signing with Victor Records where he wrote and performed many of his signature hit songs. Waller was soon penning musicals and appearing in movies, but longed for recognition as a serious composer. He died before achieving that goal, but in subsequent years, Waller's talent has been fêted by many artists, as well as a popular Broadway show.