Truly difficult to have “a favorite”, I’ll list a few: Benny Carter, Lester Young, Ben Webster, Coltrane, Hawkins, Oscar, Bill Evans, Brubeck, Johnny Hodges, Getz, Sonny Rollins, Sweets, Monk, Miles.
They all led their own groups, also played in different bands over the years, like Ellington, Basie... and when I hear the Basie Band play April In Paris, I stop what I’m doing, turn up the volume... “one more one”. I read most evenings, sip a little Dewars, while listening to the above... multitasking.

You have such good taste. Try a little Gerry Mulligan with your Jazz diet. Lol. My bad, Mulligan is later. Didnt see date limitation. How about Ornette Coleman or Coleman Hawkins.

Mingus Coltrane

Miles Davis for sure but from the suggestions listed sounds like a play list for a weekend!