Rick Braun: The Trumpet Virtuoso of Smooth Jazz

Rick Braun is an American trumpeter, vocalist, and producer who has become a cornerstone of the contemporary jazz and smooth jazz genres. Hailing from Allentown, Pennsylvania, his career is marked by a string of chart-topping albums on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart, solidifying his status as a radio favorite and a consistent hitmaker.

Early career

Born in 1955, Rick Braun's musical journey began early, leading him to study at the prestigious Eastman School of Music. His professional start came not in jazz, but as a sideman and session musician for pop and rock acts in the 1980s. He contributed to records by artists like Crowded House, REO Speedwagon, and even played the trumpet solo on the hit "Tender Is the Night" by the band Jackson Browne.

Breakthrough

Rick Braun's solo breakthrough arrived in the mid-1990s with his album "Beat Street" on the Mesa/Bluemoon Recordings label. The 1995 release showcased his melodic trumpet style and skilled production, climbing to number 2 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart. This success was quickly followed by his 1996 album "Body and Soul," which included the massive radio hit "Notorious," a track that dominated smooth jazz airwaves for weeks and became his signature song.

Key tracks

Notorious — This 1996 instrumental from the album "Body and Soul" became a defining smooth jazz anthem and his most recognizable radio smash.

Shining Star — A cover of the Earth, Wind & Fire classic, this track from 2000's "Kisses in the Rain" highlighted his soulful phrasing and crossover appeal.

Grazin' in the Grass — His 2002 collaboration with saxophonist Boney James on the album "R n R" resulted in another major radio hit that topped the smooth jazz charts.

Rio — This vibrant track from the 2007 album "Yours Truly" exemplifies his talent for crafting catchy, Latin-tinged melodies.

Around the Horn — A fan favorite from his 2019 album "Crossroads," it showcases his enduring skill for composing upbeat, horn-driven instrumentals.

Throughout the 2000s and beyond, Rick Braun maintained a prolific output, releasing albums like "Sessions Vol. 1" and collaborating extensively. His partnership with saxophonist Richard Elliot formed the core of the ensemble BWB (Braun, Wah, and Elliot) and they launched the popular touring package "Jazz Attack." He has also frequently recorded with guitarist Norman Brown, including their joint 2022 album "Browne/Braun Project." His work as a producer for other artists, such as David Benoit and Marc Antoine, further cemented his influence within the genre.

Fans of Rick Braun's polished, melodic sound also enjoy the music of Chris Botti, who similarly blends jazz with pop sensibility. The soulful saxophone work of Dave Koz shares a radio-friendly approach and frequent collaborative spirit. The guitar-driven smooth jazz of Norman Brown is a natural complement, given their shared projects. Listeners may also appreciate the energetic funk-jazz of Brian Culbertson, another artist known for dynamic live performances.

Rick Braun's extensive catalog of smooth jazz hits ensures his music remains in heavy rotation on adult contemporary and smooth jazz FM stations worldwide. His instrumental tracks are staples on online jazz radio streams and are frequently featured on programming blocks dedicated to contemporary jazz masters, guaranteeing his trumpet sound reaches listeners daily.

The music of Rick Braun, a defining voice in American smooth jazz, can be heard regularly on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover his classic hits and newer releases by tuning into the contemporary jazz and instrumental music stations available on onairium.com.