Thelonious Sphere Monk III (born December 27, 1949) is an American jazz drummer, composer and bandleader.

[1] Born in New York City, Monk began his music career early in his life, honing his skills throughout the 1970s.

Monk's destiny was sealed when Art Blakey gave him his first drum set at the age of 15, and began lessons with Max Roach.

This is the "80th Anniversary Birthday Tribute to Thelonious Sphere Monk" featuring 20 guest artists including Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Arturo Sandoval, Dianne Reeves, Nnenna Freelon, and Howard Johnson.

lang, as well as Thelonious performing his father's signature tune, "'Round Midnight", with Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, and Nnenna Freelon.