Grover Washington Jr. was a pioneering American jazz saxophonist, born on December 12, 1943, in Buffalo, New York. He is widely regarded as one of the founders of the smooth jazz genre, alongside artists like Wes Montgomery and George Benson. Washington's innovative approach to blending jazz with R&B and pop influences left an indelible mark on the music world.
Washington's musical journey began early in life, influenced by his musical family. His mother sang in church choirs, and his father, also a saxophonist, had an extensive collection of jazz records. At the age of ten, Washington received his first saxophone from his parents.
As a child in Buffalo, Washington was exposed to various musical styles. His professional career began at the young age of twelve, playing R&B, blues, and what he called "gut-bucket."
Washington's formal musical education included studies in classical music, which later proved beneficial in honing his sight-reading skills and fostering his interest in composition. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1967.
Upon discharge from the Army, Washington moved to Philadelphia, becoming closely associated with the city throughout his career. He worked as a session musician and recorded as a sideman for Prestige Records. His big break came in 1971 when he was a last-minute replacement for saxophonist Hank Crawford, which led to the release of his debut album, Inner City Blues.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Washington released a string of successful albums that solidified his position as a leading figure in jazz-funk and soul-jazz. Some of his most notable works include:
Washington's music was characterized by his ability to blend jazz improvisation with R&B and pop influences. He was known for his proficiency on multiple saxophones, including tenor, alto, and soprano. Some of his most memorable hits include:
Washington's influence extended beyond his own recordings. He was an arranger and producer, and his style inspired many subsequent smooth jazz artists. His interpretation of Dave Brubeck's "Take Five" and his version of "Soulful Strut" are also well-regarded.
![Grover Washington Jr. feat. Bill Withers - Just The Two of Us [HQ]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PJ0u5c9EF1E/maxresdefault.jpg)
Grover Washington Jr. received numerous accolades for his work. His album Winelight won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance in 1982. He was known for his energetic live performances and continued to tour and record until his untimely death on December 17, 1999.
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