Norman Malone fell in love with the piano at the age of 5. He dreamed of being a professional pianist. Growing up the oldest of three boys, Norman’s mother often asked Norman to stay awake at night to protect his family – from his father. Norman’s father was very violent and abusive. When Norman was 10-years old, he just couldn’t stay awake one night, and his life changed forever.

When Norman woke up, he and his brothers had all been beaten with a hammer by their father. Each of them was partially paralyzed, Norman lost the use of his right hand. His dreams of being a pianist were shattered. For 60, years, Norman played piano in his apartment, he found music that was for left hand only pianists!

After years of hearing Norman play, his neighbors wrote to a local jazz critic and Norman played his first public concert! Amazing story and an amazing man! Share away, people.