American jazz pianist and composer Lyle Mays (1953-2020) was a pivotal figure in contemporary jazz, best known for his long-standing collaboration with guitarist Pat Metheny. As a co-founder of the Pat Metheny Group, his sophisticated compositions and innovative synthesizer work defined their distinctive sound, earning multiple Grammy Awards and influencing a generation of jazz fusion artists. Mays's intricate harmonic language and lyrical melodies extended beyond the group, showcasing his brilliance as a solo artist and arranger.