Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Vocal jazz BDiamondMusik
~ Diamond Jazz Sessionz ~ Let's Have A Little Fourplay ~

When it comes to Smooth Jazz, the group FOURPLAY has to be the most well-known, documented, celebrated and popular band of the art form. I call them the Earth, Wind & Fire of Smooth Jazz. The group currently consists of Bob James, Nathan East, Chuck Loeb and Harvey Mason. Fourplay is the gold standard that all other quartet jazz bands are measured.

The Fourplay story begins in 1990, with keyboardist Bob James, who had already established himself as a formidable figure in jazz, known not just as an instrumentalist, also but as a composer and arranger, with a solo career dating back to the mid-1960s.

It was in 1990, when James partnered with Harvey Mason during the recording of James’ album Grand Piano Canyon. That project also included guitarist Lee Ritenour, and bassist Nathan East. That recording marked the genesis of the original group known as FOURPLAY.

The original lineup of James, Mason, East, and Ritenour released their self-titled debut in 1991, and stayed together for three successive albums. Ritenour left the group and was replaced by Larry Carlton on guitar who was also replaced by Chuck Loeb the current guitarist. The mainstays of the groups are James, Mason and East.

Known for their Improvisational, contemporary jazz style they incorporate elements of blues, funk and Celtic into their music. Fourplay has featured vocalists such as Phil Collins, Patti Austin, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, El Debarge, Babyface Edmonds, Shanice and Peabo Bryson. Nathan East, also has continued to contribute vocals throughout the course of the group’s history.

For over 25 years the legend of Fourplay has grown. Exploring the limitless possibilities of jazz has allowed the quartet to evolve musically, drawing musical elements from a wide range of styles, to hone their own unique and innovative sound. So, ladies and gentlemen it’s time to get cozy, smooth and intimate. Dim the lights, turn up the sounds, set the mood and “Let’s Have A Little Fourplay" Let’s Play Gentlemen!!!