The Rippingtons Biography
Instrumental stalwarts the Rippingtons, led by guitarist/keyboardist/composer Russ Freeman, have been a crucial force in defining the contemporary smooth jazz sound, and have remained a major attraction for over two decades.
Freeman (not to be confused with the veteran West Coast bop pianist of the same name) already had a solo album under his belt in 1987, when he was approached by a Japanese label about leading a jazz recording project. Adopting the Rippingtons name, he recorded an album of pop/R&B-flavored contemporary jazz with a one-off all-star studio ensemble that included Kenny G, David Benoit and Brandon Fields. The album became a surprise hit in America, and Freeman soon formed a permanent band to record and tour under the Rippingtons banner.
The Rippingtons worked steadily and productively through the ’90s and the ’00s, maintaining an accessible pop-jazz style. In the process, they won a sizable audience and became a regular presence on smooth jazz radio stations. The Rippingtons continue to tour and record, and remains a mainstay on the smooth jazz scene.
Recent Comments