British-born pianist Terry Disley pays tribute to the jazz greats who shaped his musical journey with his new single, Ticklin’ the Eighty Eights. Produced by Billboard chart-topper Chris Standring and released on Ultimate Vibe Recordings, the track showcases Disley’s bright, fluid touch while honoring the artistry of piano icons Joe Sample, Bob James, and Dave Grusin.
Growing up in the United Kingdom, Disley trained classically before immersing himself in jazz, eventually playing on two GRAMMY®-nominated albums with contemporary jazz group Acoustic Alchemy. On Ticklin’ the Eighty Eights, Disley’s nimble phrasing dances across the keys over a swinging, piano-driven groove anchored by bassist Andre Berry and drummer Chad Wright. The single is already gaining international airplay across the U.S., Australia, Germany, Poland, Spain, and the U.K.
Disley and Standring’s collaboration spans decades, beginning in their early twenties in London. Ticklin’ the Eighty Eights marks their fifth joint single on Standring’s Ultimate Vibe Records imprint since 2024, following successful releases like Say No More, Bangers and Mash, Late Night Rendezvous, and Razzle Dazzle. “Chris and I have stayed in touch over the years, and working together again has been a joy,” says Disley, who now lives in the Bay Area and holds two local residencies.
Disley’s distinguished career includes being named Best Jazz Musician of the Year with the London-based jazz group Macondo, international tours with the English ska-influenced band Madness, and extensive work with GRAMMY® winner Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics as keyboardist, arranger, and musical director. His session credits include legends such as Sir Paul McCartney, Van Morrison, Sir Mick Jagger, Bon Jovi, George Harrison, Tom Jones, Bryan Ferry, Billy Bragg, and Dee Dee Bridgewater, and his piano work features in film scores including Showgirls, Beautiful Girls, The Ref, and Crime Time.
As a solo artist, Disley has released eight albums since his 2002 debut Experience and is currently preparing his ninth, slated for early 2027. His mission is to carry forward the legacy of the pianists who 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,” he says.
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