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Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Pianist Terry Disley channels contemporary jazz greats on “Ticklin’ the Eighty Eights” #jazz #music


The single produced by Billboard hitmaker Chris Standring pays homage to legends Joe Sample, Bob James, and Dave Grusin.

 

 

Growing up in the United Kingdom, Terry Disley was inspired by American piano jazz greats Joe SampleBob James, and Dave Grusin. The classically trained pianist came of age in London and went on to play on two GRAMMY®‑nominated albums as a member of contemporary jazz band Acoustic Alchemy. On “Ticklin’ the Eighty Eights,” the new Ultimate Vibe Recordings single he co‑wrote with Billboard chart-topping guitarist Chris Standring, Disley puts his bright, fluid touch on full display in a tribute to the artists who shaped him.

 

The swinging, piano‑driven groove on “Ticklin’ the Eighty Eights” exudes heart and uplift. Bassist Andre Berry and drummer Chad Wright lay down a warm, propulsive foundation while Disley’s nimble phrasing dances across the keys. The Standring-produced single is earning airplay throughout the U.S., Australia, Germany, Poland, Spain, and the U.K.

 

Disley and Standring’s musical partnership dates back to their early days in London. “Ticklin’ the Eighty Eights” marks their fifth collaborative single on Standring’s Ultimate Vibe Records imprint since 2024.

 

“I’ve known Chris since we were playing together in our twenties. He often hired me to play in his band back then, and we stayed in touch after we both moved to America. We decided to collaborate and found success with four singles— ‘Say No More,’ ‘Bangers and Mash,’ ‘Late Night Rendezvous,’ and ‘Razzle Dazzle,’” said Disley, who lives in the Bay Area and plays two local residencies.

 

Disley was named Best Jazz Musician of the Year with the London-based jazz group Macondo after transitioning from classical to jazz. He toured internationally with the popular English Ska-influenced band Madness before joining Acoustic Alchemy, appearing and co-writing on six of their albums. He later spent five years as keyboardist, arranger, and occasional musical director for GRAMMY® winner Dave Stewart (Eurythmics), touring and recording extensively. His session work includes dates with Sir Paul McCartneyVan MorrisonSir Mick Jagger, Bon JoviGeorge HarrisonTom JonesBryan FerryBilly Bragg, and Dee Dee Bridgewater. His piano work also appears in film scores including ShowgirlsBeautiful GirlsThe Ref, and Crime Time.

 

As a solo artist, Disley has released eight albums since his 2002 debut Experience and is currently working on his ninth, slated for release early 2027. His mission is to carry forward the legacy of the legendary pianists that inspired him.

 

“I’m stepping out to establish myself as a solo contemporary jazz keyboard artist with the purpose of keeping the flame of Joe Sample, Bob James, and Dave Grusin burning brightly.”

 

For more information, visit www.terrydisley.com



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