Jazz Legend Jeannie Cheatham Still Playing Strong at 98

SAN DIEGO — Jazz icon Jeannie Cheatham, the trailblazing pianist, composer, and co-founder of the Sweet Baby Blues Band, is showing no signs of slowing down as she celebrates her 98th birthday. Known for her swing, boogie-woogie, and blues mastery, Cheatham’s vibrant energy remains as magnetic as ever.

A Life Steeped in Music

Born in 1927, Cheatham’s career has spanned decades of jazz history, performing with legends like Lionel Hampton, Cab Calloway, and Dizzy Gillespie. She’s best known for leading the Sweet Baby Blues Band, which she co-founded with her late husband, bassist Jimmy Cheatham, bringing Kansas City-style blues to audiences worldwide.

Her life in music has been chronicled in her memoir, Meet Me With Your Black Drawers On, a nod to one of her most beloved songs. Even now, she says she doesn’t dwell on age: “I’m busy!” Cheatham told the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Still Performing and Inspiring

Despite her milestone birthday, Cheatham continues to perform and mentor young musicians. She remains a fixture at local jazz events, drawing crowds eager to hear her playful yet powerful piano style.

“I have music in my head all the time,” she said, noting that the thrill of sharing her art with others keeps her going.

Breaking Barriers for Women in Jazz

Cheatham’s career has also been defined by breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated industry. She carved out space for women on the jazz stage, inspiring countless female musicians to pursue their passion for the genre.

“She’s one of those people who just radiates joy,” said one local music organizer. “When Jeannie plays, you feel history come alive.”

Jazz enthusiasts across the country continue to celebrate Cheatham not only for her longevity but for her dedication to preserving and evolving the blues-infused jazz sound she helped define.

What’s your favorite Jeannie Cheatham performance? Share your memories in the comments at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.