Ron Brown's musical career has taken him through many styles of
music. His first big break came when he joined the Duke Ellington
Orchestra under Mercer Ellington. From Ellington it was on to gigs
with Natalie Cole, Diana Ross, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, and
more. In between these tours, there were countless sessions and
television show performances with Stevie Wonder, Joe Sample, Aretha
Franklin, and Al Jarreau.
After years of being a sideman, Ron embarked on a solo career. His
debut cd, "From My Eyes Only" was produced by Grammy nominated
guitarist Doc Powell, and released on Discovery Records in 1997.
Taking his career to the next level, Ron established his own record
label, Mankind Records, and produced the critically acclaimed CD,
"Urban Dreams" by the Urban Jazz Network, featuring performances by
Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Kenny Garrett, and Mulgrew Miller.
This cd blended the sounds of Jazz, R&B, Hip Hop, and
Gospel.
The music of his In The Spirit project, released in 2001 weavs
seamlessly through traditional hymns and upbeat contemporary
arrangements. "In The Spirit is a victory celebration of God's
power in my life, and I want to share that victory with all of
God's children", says Ron.
Ron's 2003 release, "Were You There", continued his quest to uplift
hearts and souls. This release featured performances by other great
sidemen, such as keyboardists Todd Hunter and Todd Lynch, bassist
Dwayne "Smitty" Smith, and drummer Land Richards.
In between his travels to Japan to further his ministry, Ron has
been producing various projects for other artists, as well as his
own solo releases; Never too far away from his "sideman" days, Ron
Brown was asked to play in the horn section of Kirk Franklin's band
during Kirk's performance on Late Night With Jay Leno, and in the
show band for the CBS Tribute to Ray Charles, where he played along
with such notables as Elton John and Al Green, and newcomers Usher,
and Norah Jones.
Look for a new solo release from Ron Brown in 2007. For more
information, visit www.mkrecords.com
