Marc Antoine is a renowned French smooth jazz guitarist, composer, and producer celebrated for his fusion of world music elements with classical and smooth jazz. Born on May 28, 1963, in Paris, France, Antoine has become a prominent figure in contemporary jazz through his intricate melodies and distinctive Roma-influenced style.
Marc Antoine's journey into music began at the age of 11 when his parents gifted him his first guitar, which he quickly described as his "third arm." His early dedication to classical guitar was solidified when at age 13, his father sent him to study at the conservatory under the guidance of mentors like Andres Segovia and John Williams. By 17, Antoine had already garnered numerous awards and began expanding his musical interests into genres such as jazz, rock, Afro, and pop music.
In 1981, a severe accident to his left hand posed a significant threat to Antoine's burgeoning guitar career. Nevertheless, his unwavering passion for music saw him triumph over adversity, and by 1984, he was back performing in Paris clubs and recording for various artists.
Marc Antoine's international journey truly began in 1988 when he relocated to London. Here, he joined Basia's band and engaged with a vibrant array of artists and groups, becoming an integral part of the London Acid Jazz scene. Additionally, Antoine established himself as a distinguished session player in Tokyo. The late 1990s saw him moving to Los Angeles for 12 years, during which he collaborated with major artists such as Sting, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, and George Benson.
Antoine's solo career took flight with his 1994 debut album, "Classical Soul." He continued to delight audiences with a series of successful albums, including:
His career includes many #1 hits on the R&R contemporary jazz charts and Billboard charts. Antoine was named Best New Artist of the Year by R&R in 1995 and received a Gavin Award in 1998.
Marc Antoine's guitar style is characterized by its blend of Roma music influences with smooth jazz and world music elements. Over the years, his impressive collaborations have included projects with:
He regularly tours with contemporary jazz artists and has shared the stage with numerous jazz legends.
Continuing to influence the smooth jazz scene, Antoine released the album "Something About Her" in 2021. His most recent single, "Levante," was unveiled in 2024, showcasing his enduring creativity and musical exploration.
Currently residing in Madrid, Spain, Antoine is married to Rebecca, who inspired his 1998 album "Madrid." His music remains a beautiful testament to his ability to weave various cultural melodies into the fabric of contemporary jazz.
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