Patrice Louise Rushen, born September 30, 1954, in Los Angeles, California, is a multifaceted American musician, composer, and educator. She began her musical journey at an exceptionally young age, starting piano lessons at three and giving classical recitals by six. Her parents, Allen and Ruth Rushen, enrolled her in music classes at the University of Southern California (USC) when she was just three years old.
Early Education and Breakthrough
Rushen's formal education included attending Locke High School in Los Angeles and later earning a degree in music from USC. Her early breakthrough came at age 17 when she won a competition that allowed her to perform with her band at the Monterey Jazz Festival.
Career Highlights
Recording Career
Signed with Prestige Records at age 19, releasing three albums:
Prelusion (1974)
Before the Dawn (1975)
Shout It Out (1977)
Joined Elektra Records in 1978, releasing successful albums including:
Patrice (1978)
Pizzazz (1979)
Posh (1980)
Straight from the Heart (1982)
Now (1984)
Her 1982 single "Forget Me Nots" received a Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
Other hit singles include "Haven't You Heard," "Feels So Real," and "Watch Out."
Musical Style and Influence
Known for blending jazz, R&B, and funk.
Skilled in various instruments, including piano, keyboards, and vocals.
Collaborations and Influence
Worked with notable artists such as Herbie Hancock, Prince, Carlos Santana, and Stevie Wonder.
Her music has been sampled by numerous artists, including Will Smith for "Men in Black."
Music Direction and Composition
Became the first woman to serve as musical director for the Grammy Awards ceremony (2004-2006).
Directed other major award shows, including the Emmy Awards, People's Choice Awards, and NAACP Image Awards.
Wrote numerous compositions performed by orchestras like the Detroit Symphony and LA Philharmonic.
Composed scores for movies and television.
Education and Mentorship
Since 2008, has been an ambassador for artistry in education at Berklee College of Music.
Chair of the popular music program at USC Thornton School of Music since 2014.
Works with various music-in-the-schools programs and music education initiatives for underprivileged youth in Los Angeles.
Awards and Recognition
Received an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Berklee College of Music in 2005.
Four-time Grammy nominee.
Discography Highlights
Studio Albums: 11 albums from 1974 to 2002.
Compilation Albums include:
Haven't You Heard: The Best of Patrice Rushen (1996)
Remind Me: The Classic Elektra Recordings 1978-1984 (2019)
Personal Life
Married Marc St. Louis, a concert tour manager and live show production specialist, in 1986.
They have one son named Cameron.
Her nickname is "Babyfingers," referring to her small hands.
Patrice Rushen's career spans over five decades, showcasing her versatility as a jazz pianist, R&B singer, composer, producer, and educator. Her influence extends beyond her own recordings, with her work being sampled and covered by numerous artists, cementing her place in music history.
