Lee Ritenour's Email & Phone Number

📖 Summary

Lee Ritenour is an American jazz guitarist whose virtuosity and versatility have made him a highly sought-after musician in the world of jazz and beyond. Born in 1952 in Los Angeles, Ritenour began playing the guitar at a young age and quickly developed a passion for the instrument. His early influences included jazz greats such as Wes Montgomery and Joe Pass, as well as rock guitarists like Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix. This eclectic mix of influences would later become a hallmark of Ritenour's own style, as he seamlessly blends jazz, rock, and pop elements into his music.

Ritenour's professional career began in the 1970s, when he emerged as a session guitarist in the Los Angeles studio scene. His exceptional talent and versatility allowed him to work with a wide range of artists, from jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Sarah Vaughan to pop icons like Steely Dan and Pink Floyd. It was during this time that Ritenour earned the nickname "Captain Fingers" for his incredible dexterity and speed on the guitar.

In addition to his work as a session player, Ritenour also began releasing his own solo albums in the 1970s. These early efforts showcased his unique blend of jazz, fusion, and pop influences, and quickly established him as a leading figure in the contemporary jazz world. In 1976, he released his critically acclaimed album "Captain Fingers," which featured a mix of original compositions and innovative arrangements of contemporary hits. The album's success helped solidify Ritenour's reputation as a solo artist, and he would go on to release a string of successful albums throughout the 1980s and beyond.

One of Ritenour's most enduring achievements is his work as a member of the jazz supergroup Fourplay. Formed in 1991, the band also featured keyboardist Bob James, bassist Nathan East, and drummer Harvey Mason. Together, they created a sophisticated blend of jazz, R&B, and pop that appealed to a wide audience. Ritenour's contributions to Fourplay helped the band achieve widespread success, and they continue to be one of the most popular and influential groups in contemporary jazz.

In addition to his work with Fourplay, Ritenour has also been a prolific collaborator, working with a diverse array of artists from different genres. He has recorded and toured with jazz luminaries like Dave Grusin, Stanley Clarke, and Dave Weckl, as well as pop artists like Phil Collins, Michael McDonald, and Stevie Nicks. This willingness to push the boundaries of jazz and collaborate with artists from other genres has made Ritenour a truly innovative and influential figure in the music world.

Despite his many collaborations and accomplishments, Ritenour has always maintained a strong connection to his jazz roots. His solo albums have consistently embraced the traditions of jazz while also incorporating elements of rock, funk, and world music. He has also remained dedicated to nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians, often serving as a mentor and educator to young guitarists.

Throughout his career, Ritenour has received numerous accolades and awards for his contributions to jazz and music in general. He has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards and has won several, including a Grammy for Best Arrangement on an Instrumental for the track "Early A.M. Attitude." In addition to his Grammy wins, Ritenour has been honored with the prestigious "Alumnus of the Year" award from the University of Southern California, where he studied music early in his career.

Lee Ritenour's impact on jazz music is immeasurable. His innovative approach to the guitar, his willingness to collaborate with artists from diverse backgrounds, and his dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians have made him a true legend in the world of jazz. As he continues to push the boundaries of the genre and inspire new generations of artists, it is clear that Ritenour's influence will be felt for years to come.