The 2016 Cavell Leitch New Zealand International Jazz & Blues Festival is pleased to present the Ramsey Lewis Quartet, in New Zealand for ONE NZ CONCERT ONLY.
Ramsey Lewis has been an iconic leader in the contemporary jazz movement for over 50 years with an unforgettable sound and outgoing personality that has allowed him to cross over to the pop and R&B charts.
A native Chicagoan, Ramsey Lewis has three Grammy Awards, seven gold records, three honorary doctorates and the Recording Academy Governor’s Award. He earned his first gold record, and first Grammy Award in 1965, for his rendition of 'The In Crowd'; his second in 1966 for 'Hold it Right There'; and his third in 1973 for 'Hang on Sloopy'. As one of the most successful jazz pianists in the world, Ramsey Lewis has also enjoyed pop chart success with 'Wade in the Water' and 'Sun Goddess' each of which sold over a million copies and earned him gold records.
Often referred to as ‘the great performer,’ Ramsey Lewis’s performance style and musical selections display his early gospel involvement and classical training, alongside his love of jazz and other musical forms. An NEA Jazz Master – the highest honour bestowed on a jazz artist in the USA – Ramsey Lewis has collaborated with many talented artists including: Nancy Wilson, Grover Washington, Jr., Earl Klugh and Dave Koz; and has recorded with London’s Philharmonic Orchestra.
Ramsey Lewis released his latest album ‘Taking Another Look – Deluxe Edition’ in 2015.
RAMSEY LEWIS QUARTET INCLUDES
» Henry Johnson, guitarist, first played with Ramsey Lewis in 1979 and cites the music of Herbie Hancock, Oscar Peterson, Freddie Hubbard, Miles Davis, big bands, and jazz orchestras as integral forces that shaped his sound and style.
» Joshua Ramos, bass, is a young Puerto Rican man who resides in Chicago, Illinois. He has shared the stage with Wynton Marsalis, opened for Stevie Wonder and continues to play with many of the jazz heavyweights.
» Charles Heath, drums,is a versatile and renowned musician playing anything from jazz and blues to gospel and Latin music both in the US and internationally.
