Lee Ritenour

Lee Ritenour is an American jazz guitarist known for his versatile playing style, prolific career, and contributions to the world of jazz fusion and contemporary jazz. Here are some facts about him:

1. Early Life and Musical Beginnings:

   • Lee Ritenour was born on January 11, 1952, in Los Angeles, California. He showed an early interest in music and began playing the guitar at the age of eight. Ritenour was largely self-taught and quickly developed a reputation as a prodigious young talent.
   • By his teenage years, Ritenour was already a sought-after session musician in the vibrant Los Angeles music scene. He played on numerous recording sessions for artists across various genres, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience as a guitarist.

2. Versatility and Collaborations:

   • Throughout his career, Lee Ritenour has demonstrated remarkable versatility as a musician, seamlessly blending elements of jazz, rock, funk, and Brazilian music into his playing. He is equally adept at playing electric and acoustic guitar, and his virtuosic technique and melodic sensibility have earned him widespread acclaim.
   • Ritenour has collaborated with a diverse range of artists over the years, including jazz legends such as Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, and Dave Grusin, as well as pop and rock musicians like Steely Dan, Pink Floyd, and Paul Simon. His ability to adapt to different musical styles and contexts has made him a highly sought-after collaborator in the music industry.

3. Solo Career and Discography:

   • Lee Ritenour launched his solo career in the 1970s, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums that showcased his eclectic musical influences and innovative approach to the guitar. His debut album, "First Course", was released in 1976 and established him as a rising star in the jazz fusion genre.
   • Over the years, Ritenour has released over 40 albums as a solo artist, exploring a wide range of musical styles and concepts. His discography includes jazz fusion classics like "Captain Fingers", smooth jazz hits like "Wes Bound", and collaborative projects such as "Harlequin" with Dave Grusin.

4. Grammy Awards and Recognition:

   • Lee Ritenour's contributions to the world of jazz have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He has earned multiple Grammy nominations and won several Grammy Awards, including Best Arrangement on an Instrumental for his work on the album "Harlequin".
   • In addition to his Grammy Awards, Ritenour has received other prestigious honors, such as the "Alumnus of the Year" award from the University of Southern California and the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards.

5. Continued Influence and Impact:

   • Despite his long and illustrious career, Lee Ritenour remains an active and influential figure in the world of jazz music. He continues to tour and record extensively, delighting audiences around the world with his virtuosic guitar playing and infectious musical energy.
   • Ritenour's legacy as a guitarist, composer, and bandleader is secure, and his influence can be heard in the playing of countless musicians who have been inspired by his innovative approach to the guitar and his enduring contributions to the jazz fusion and contemporary jazz genres.

In summary, Lee Ritenour is a highly accomplished jazz guitarist known for his versatile playing style, prolific career, and enduring contributions to the world of jazz music. With his innovative approach to the guitar and his extensive discography of solo albums and collaborative projects, he continues to inspire and influence musicians and music lovers around the world.