Beginning in the late '80s, saxophone master
Gerald Albright recorded numerous successful solo albums for Atlantic when he wasn't busy assisting an impressive, and mammoth, roster of popular
r&b artists. Born in South Central Los Angeles, the saxophonist idolized
James Brown and took much influence from
Maceo Parker and
Cannonball Adderley. He first made a name for himself within the music industry during the 1980s, when he became a highly requested session musician. His revered reputation resulted in a solo contract with Altantic Records. His first album for the label, Just Between Us, introduced him to the masses in 1987, and numerous albums resulted, including a best-of collection in 2001.
Albright's fame peaked in the early '90s, around the time he released Live at Birdland West, a brave album for the saxman showcasing his ability to play
jazz as well as
r&b. He moved from Atlantic to GRP in 2002 for the Groovology album, his first in over five years, and continued to maintain his busy schedule as a sessionman. His second GRP album, Kickin' It Up, followed in 2004. Two years later he appeared on Peak Records, which released New Beginnings. Some of the more well-known artists
Albright assisted during his career include
Anita Baker,
Quincy Jones,
the Temptations,
Phil Collins, and
Whitney Houston. ~ Jason Birchmeier, All Music Guide
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Sax for Stax
New Beginnings