Grammy-winner Earl Klugh to play Jazz alley May 3 – 6
ARTIST INFO
“Earl Klugh will, by his own merits, become one of the most important voices on the guitar in the ‘70s. This album is clear evidence of what I’m talking about. Throughout it, you will become thrilled by both his complete mastery of his instrument and his beautiful, sensitive reflections. I’m especially excited by “Vonetta,” which was written by Earl, because it truly exemplifies the kind of musician he is – one with a great sense of rhythm, harmony and feel… I know that you will get as much pleasure out of listening to this album as I have had working with Earl… Right on, Earl Klugh!”
– George Benson, on Klugh’s self-titled debut Earl Klugh (1976)
Since GRAMMY®-winner Earl Klugh released his inaugural album in 1976, the Detroit-born master of the acoustic-classical guitar has become one of the most imitated icons of the instrument. He has released over 40 records, 24 of which have been on Billboard’s top-10 list of jazz albums and 6 of which have made it to the No.1 slot. Klugh’s recordings have received 13 Grammy® nominations (including one for his latest release, HandPicked) – and his collaboration with pianist Bob James, One on One, walked away with the 1980 Grammy® Award for Best Pop Instrumental Album.
In 2017, Earl celebrates the 41st Anniversary of his debut album Earl Klugh (1976, Blue Note Records) with a very special catalogue of shows, highlighting selections from over 250 original compositions and featuring Klugh’s favorite standards, influences and collaborations from throughout his illustrious career.
“I’ve been so fortunate to be able to create the music that I’ve wanted to create, and work with some of the greatest artists of our time,” says Klugh. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 41 years since that first record!”
Of his the latest release HandPicked, Earl said, “Making a record that includes instrumental duets is something I have really been looking forward to.” The album includes duets with country legend Vince Gill, contemporary jazz guitarist Bill Frisell and ukulele player Jake Shimabukuro; three very different musicians, but whose styles Klugh admires greatly.