George Howard - Discography (198

George Howard - Discography (198)

George Howard was an American jazz-funk, fusion, and smooth jazz soprano saxophonist who was born on September 15, 1957 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He started his musical career as a sideman for Grover Washington Jr., one of his main influences, and later became a solo artist in the early 1980s. He released several albums that topped the Billboard contemporary jazz charts and earned him a loyal fan base. He died on March 20, 1998 from colon cancer at the age of 40.

In this article, we will review his discography from the 1980s, when he established himself as a prominent figure in the smooth jazz scene. We will focus on his studio albums and highlight some of his most popular songs.

Download Zip

Asphalt Gardens (1982)

This was Howard's debut album as a leader, released by Palo Alto Records. It featured a blend of jazz-funk, soul, and fusion, with Howard playing both soprano and tenor saxophones. The album included covers of Stevie Wonder's "Rocket Love" and Earth, Wind & Fire's "The Preacher", as well as original compositions such as "Asphalt Gardens" and "Stanley's Groove" (dedicated to Stanley Turrentine). The album received positive reviews from critics and listeners alike, and showcased Howard's versatility and talent as a saxophonist.

Steppin' Out (1984)

This was Howard's second album for Palo Alto Records, and it continued the jazz-funk and fusion style of his previous work. The album featured guest appearances by guitarist Paul Jackson Jr., keyboardist Patrice Rushen, drummer Harvey Mason, and vocalist Philip Bailey. The album included the hit single "Steppin' Out", which reached number 5 on the Billboard jazz chart. Other notable tracks were "Love Will Find a Way" (a cover of Lionel Richie's song), "Too Bad" (a tribute to Marvin Gaye), and "Sweetest Taboo" (a cover of Sade's song). The album was well-received by fans and critics, and cemented Howard's reputation as a smooth jazz star.

Dancing in the Sun (1985)

This was Howard's third and final album for Palo Alto Records, and it marked a slight departure from his previous albums. The album featured more acoustic elements, such as piano, guitar, and flute, and less synthesizers and drum machines. The album also had a more relaxed and romantic mood, with songs such as "Dancing in the Sun", "Love Will Follow" (a cover of Kenny Loggins' song), and "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?" (a duet with singer Miki Howard). The album was a commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard jazz chart, and it showed Howard's ability to adapt to different musical styles.

A Nice Place to Be (1986)

This was Howard's first album for MCA Records, and it was his most successful album to date. The album featured a smooth and sophisticated sound, with Howard playing mostly soprano saxophone over lush arrangements by keyboardist George Duke. The album included the smash hit "No No", which reached number 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and number 29 on the Billboard pop chart. Other popular tracks were "One Love", "Late Night", and "Love Will Conquer All" (a cover of Lionel Richie's song). The album was praised by critics for its elegance and refinement, and it sold over one million copies worldwide.

Reflections (1988)

This was Howard's second album for MCA Records, and it was another commercial success. The album featured a similar sound to his previous album, with Howard playing mostly soprano saxophone over smooth production by George Duke. The album included the hit single "Personal", which reached number 2 on the Billboard jazz chart and number 43 on the Billboard R&B chart. Other notable tracks were "I Want You for Myself" (a cover of George Duke's song), "Baby Come to Me" (a duet with singer Brenda Russell), and "Three Minute Warning" (a fast-paced instrumental). The album was well-received by fans and critics, and it demonstrated Howard's consistency and quality as a smooth jazz artist.

These were the albums that George Howard released in the 1980s, and they established him as one of the leading figures in the smooth jazz genre. He continued to release albums in the 1990s, such as Love and Understanding (1991), When Summer Comes (1993), and Midnight Mood (1998), until his untimely death in 1998. He left behind a legacy of music that influenced many saxophonists and smooth jazz fans around the world.

References:

: George Howard Discography Discogs

: George Howard Albums and Discography AllMusic

: George Howard (jazz) - Wikipedia

: George Howard: albums, songs, playlists Listen on Deezer

: Dancing in the Sun - George Howard Songs, Reviews, Credits AllMusic

: A Nice Place to Be - George Howard Songs, Reviews, Credits AllMusic

: Reflections - George Howard Songs, Reviews, Credits AllMusic

a104e7fe7e

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse