African-American pianist and composer Don Shirley (January 29, 1927 - April 6, 2013) displayed immense talent at an early age, debuting in concert with the Boston Pops at age 18. Regardless of the obstructions of segregation, he performed at prestigious venues and earned acclaim for his work with the read more Wear Shirley Trio, showcasing a distinctive style that melded traditional, spiritual and popular elements. Largely forgotten by the time of his death, Shirley was introduced to new generations of enthusiasts with the 2018 signature of Green Book, featuring Mahershala Ali as Shirley and Viggo Mortensen as his bodyguard and chauffeur, Anthony "Tony Lip" Vallelonga.

Movie: 'Green Book'

In 2018, audiences were reintroduced to the life and talents of Shirley through the Peter Farrelly-directed Eco-friendly Book. The film showcased the growing friendship between two men of imprudencia backgrounds during a trip of the American South in the early 1960s. Its title is sketched from a guidebook designed to help black road users find safe passage in unfriendly regions.