Ricky Peterson - guest artist

Playing on David Sanborn records since the mid 80’s, he ensembled with and produced Sanborn on “Songs from the Night Before” and Prince on “Gold”, “Emancipation”, “Crystal Ball”. Peterson also played a big part in writing and producing George Benson’s “That’s Right” CD.

This is just the icing on a career whose associations (either live or in the studio) read like a diverse pop and jazz trivia encyclopedia: Stevie Nicks, Bonnie Raitt, Billy Joel, Anita Baker, James Taylor, Mavis Staples, Joe Sample, Sting, Sergio Mendes, Brian Wilson, Ben Sidran, Rodger Waters, Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, Phil Upchurch, Jimmy Buffet, Fine Young Cannibals, Steve Miller Band, GoGos, Paula Abdul, Boz Scaggs, Dave Koz, Lalah Hathaway, Sheryl Crow, Jonathon Butler, Bruce Willis, The Jets, Jermaine Jackson, Rhythm Syndicate, Chaka Khan, Robben Ford, Howard Hewett, Larry Graham, Tuck & Patti and John Mayer.

Recording and touring over the years alongside everyone from Prince and David Sanborn to Bonnie Raitt and George Benson, Ricky Peterson learned more than a few things about what it takes to step into the spotlight and be a successful solo artist. Ricky started his solo career with his first album “Night Watch” with Tommy LiPuma at Warner Brothers in ‘89 . He then went on to create more music on the Go Jazz Label with the critically acclaimed “Smile Blue” and “A Tear Can Tell” in ‘92 and ‘96. He was first introduced to Windham Hill Jazz fans in ‘98 with single song contributions to popular television shows as well as the Midnight Groove sampler in 1998.

While Peterson’s tunes on those compilations displayed the gentler, more reflective side of his artistry, he adds to the palette on his new music with hard-hitting, edgy tunes that recall his upbringing as a fan of R&B/funk, progressive rock, jazz and blues. “I pride myself on musicality in everything, and I’m most challenged by intricate chord changes– even on the simplest tune.” He adds “I also work on arrangements so that unexpected segments are a given. It’s fun starting out in one place, then taking the song in a new and exciting direction. And for God’s sake, it’s got to be funky! To me, maintaining the passion for music and expressing my emotions as honestly as possible is what it’s all about.”