JJ Sansaverino is a New York-based guitarist known for his unique blend of smooth jazz, R&B, reggae, and world music, often described as "Benson meets Santana." With a career spanning over three decades, Sansaverino has established himself as a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene.
Musical Background and Education
Grew up in a musical family, with his grandfather being a well-known singer in the Lower East Side and his grandmother an opera singer who studied at Juilliard.
Started playing trumpet and violin at age 11, and guitar by age 13.
Graduated cum laude from Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he studied Commercial Arranging and Big Band.
Career Highlights
Released five highly acclaimed albums.
Performs 50+ live dates per year.
Achieved a #1 Billboard hit single and multiple Billboard charting songs.
Toured internationally in locations such as London, St. Maarten, Sri Lanka, Anguilla, Vancouver, Seattle, Arizona, New York, Qatar, Dubai, California, Florida, Africa, Guam, Spain, and Japan.
Musical Style and Influences
Fuses smooth jazz, traditional jazz, blues, R&B, and reggae.
Influenced by artists such as Carlos Santana, George Benson, Bob Marley, Miles Davis, and Jimmy Hendrix.
Collaborations and Performances
Shared the stage with notable artists including Maceo Parker, Shaggy, Sean Paul, Maxi Priest, George Clinton, Gerald Albright, Randy Brecker, Victor Bailey, and the Marley Family.
Performed at Sir Paul McCartney's wedding in 2002.
Has been touring with reggae legend Maxi Priest for over 12 years.
Recent Projects
Released his latest album "Soul Energy" on Innervision Records.
Celebrating recent radio hits "Keep It Moving," "Miami," and "Ride With Me," which have topped the Billboard Charts.
Collaborated with Maxi Priest on the song "Blessed With A Melody," which topped the Jazz and Reggae Charts.
Currently recording his sixth album "Conversations."
Released a new radio single "Love Can't Wait" in April 2024.
Discography
Sansaverino has released multiple albums and singles, including:
"Love Can't Wait" (2024)
"Soul Energy" (2022)
"Cocktails & Jazz" (2021)
"Style and Elegance" (2020)
"International Groove" (2018)
"Waiting for You" (2014)
"Sunshine After Midnight" (2005)
Performance Style
Known for his high-energy shows that blend multiple genres.
Described as having a "take no prisoners" performance attitude.
Personal Philosophy
Sees his musical talent as a blessing and aims to be "God's messenger," delivering musical blessings to the world while caring for his family.
JJ Sansaverino continues to tour internationally, perform at prestigious venues like the Blue Note Jazz Club, and release new music, maintaining his position as a respected figure in the contemporary jazz and world music scenes.
