54 Down

NYT Daily ? September 21, 2025

Jazz composer Garner

Answer:

ERROLL

Hint:

This pianist and composer was known for his distinctive left-hand bass patterns and wrote the jazz standard "Misty."

Explanation:

This clue refers to Erroll Garner, a legendary jazz pianist and composer known for his distinctive swing style and iconic piece "Misty." The first name "Erroll" fits the answer length, and since "Garner" is his last name, the clue directly points to him without wordplay. If you're familiar with jazz history, his name stands out immediately as a key figure in the genre.

More Clues from This Puzzle

15 Down

5 letters

Make a big step, perhaps

25 Across

4 letters

Pro ___

32 Across

9 letters

Kicked off, as a business

51 Across

3 letters

Small square

General solving tip

Markers like 'var.' or 'alt. sp.' mean a variant spelling. Consider alternate forms (GRAY/GREY, EON/AEON) that fit the grid.

More tips → General Hints