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Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers were an archetypal hard-bop group that emerged in the late 1950s, with their origins dating back to 1954 or '55 when their first recordings appeared. Known for their driving and aggressive extension of bop with strong blues roots, the group remained active until Blakey's death in 1990. Although the name Jazz Messengers had been used earlier, it was revived by Blakey and pianist Horace Silver when they began working together in the early 1950s. The group was formed as a collective, with leadership shared between Silver and Blakey. The original lineup, which included Blakey, Silver, and others, was relatively short-lived, with Blakey being the last remaining original member by late 1956. Over the years, the Jazz Messengers became a significant platform for young jazz musicians, serving as a proving ground for emerging talent in the jazz scene.
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