It's hard to believe 20 years has transpired since Russ Freemen "let it ripp" with the formation of the groundbreaking group The Rippingtons, who pioneered a new musical format currently known as smooth jazz. Sixteen CDs later, thousands of tour dates, and various incarnations of the group (which launched many of the genre's top stars), Freeman has reunited past and present Ripps and guest stars for a 20th anniversary new CD coupled with a DVD retrospective being released on Peak Records July 25. The CD will be supported by a national tour in August and September, segments of which will be sponsored by Cadillac Smooth Jazz TV, with guest star appearances along with way. Think past Rippingtons and guest stars - think Dave Koz, Brian McKnight, Patti Austin, Jeffrey Osborne, Kirk Whalum, Brandon Fields, Tony Morales, Gregg Karukas, Paul Taylor, Eric Marienthal, Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Reid, Jimmy Johnson and Jerry Hey, all of whom are among those performing on the CD. Think Lifetime Achievement Award, Best Band and producer, think group leader/founder/producer Russ Freeman, the recipient of all from the National Smooth Jazz Awards, not to forget Grammy Award nominee. Think Peak Records and the label formed by Freeman and his manager Andi Howard, who has also been with the band since its inception.
Think the "Jazz Cat" created by artist Bill Mayer, who has graced Rippingtons CD cover art since the beginning and has also starred in some of their music videos. Think of the jazz cat skiing, playing golf, riding the waves as a "tourist in paradise" and think of Rippingtons' Freeman who has shared his passions in life with his audience through his music.
Finally, think July 25th and mark down the release of the 20th Anniversary CD/ DVD/retrospective of the Rippingtons featuring Russ Freeman, a milestone in a now legendary career of a group that has set the standards for which many have followed.
Technorati Tags: Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Music
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