Bob Neloms almost became well-known in the late 1970s but then chose the career of a jazz educator over that of a full-time musician. From 1959-60 he attended the Berklee College of Music and worked in Motown's studios from 1961-63. Neloms freelanced in the jazz world and often led his own combos, which at various times included such sidemen as Ricky Ford, Eddie Henderson and Bob Mover. After studying at Berklee again from 1969-70 and freelancing on the east coast, Neloms moved to New York in 1973. He worked with Roy Haynes, made an impression while playing with Charles Mingus from 1977-78 and also worked with James Newton, Hamiet Bluiett and Dannie Richmond, among others. Neloms, who recorded a solo piano date for India Navigation in 1981, eventually became quite active as a music teacher and therapist but has not gained much fame as a player despite a frequently stirring post-bop style. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi