On this Russell Ferrante interview: playing his second professional gig at Shea Stadium, opening for WAR, then getting signed to a major label deal… playing with Art Blakely, Wayne Shorter, Phil Upchurch, Rockwell, Marcus Miller, Joni Mitchell, Eric Marienthal, the North Sea Jazz Festival, Birdland in NYC, learning humility from his students… putting together his awesome new LP, Inflexion, marriage, family, San Jose, caring for his father during his last days, Italy, gratitude, and why he’s lived a charmed life. What a lovely human being, good vibes only!

A founding member of the Yellowjackets, along with Jimmy Haslip, Robben Ford & Ricky Lawson, the band has recorded over 20 albums, receiving 15 Grammy nominations and winning two. Over the last 45 years Russell’s also recorded or performed with: Lorraine Feather, Art Blakey, John Klemmer, Lee Ritenour, Larry Carlton, Kevyn Lettau, Brenda Russell, Randy Crawford, Eric Marienthal, Wayne Shorter, Joe Farrell, Bobby McFerrin, Tom Scott, Robben Ford, George Michael, Marilyn Scott, Julia Fordham, Marcus Miller, Take 6, Michael Franks, Joni Mitchell, Sadao Watanabe, GRP All Star Big Band, Art Pepper, Ernie Watts, Dave Grusin, Jim Pepper, Mindi Abair, Al Jarreau, Mimi Fox & others