(1904–43)
a US jazz musician who sang, played the piano and wrote popular songs. His real name was Thomas Waller. His humorous style influenced many later jazz performers. His hits included Ain’t Misbehavin’ (1928) and Honeysuckle Rose (1929), and he wrote the African-American musical shows Keep Shufflin’ (1928) and Hot Chocolates (1929). He later led the group Fats Waller and His Rhythm, whose songs included The Joint Is Jumpin’ (1937) and Honey Hush (1939).