Guitarist Ronny Smith’s Velvet Vibe is under GRAMMY® consideration for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, and three tracks from the collection – “Heavens’ Angel,” “Night Wave,” and “Velvet Vibe” – are up for Best Jazz Performance. The Pacific Coast Jazz release reflects Smith’s most cohesive artistic statement to date, built on soulful melodies, infectious grooves, and his signature cool‑toned electric guitar voice.
Released in July, Velvet Vibe features ten original compositions written, produced, and arranged by Smith. As an instrumental storyteller, his guitar voice is defined by warm chord‑melody lines, fluid phrasing, and a rhythmic articulation that bridges traditional jazz with contemporary groove. Smith builds each piece around melody and groove, blending contemporary and straight‑ahead jazz with elements of soul, funk, and blues. His refined technique and expressive touch create rhythmic performances across diverse musical settings.
“With Velvet Vibe, my goal was to move contemporary jazz forward while staying true to the traditions that shaped me,” said Smith, who will perform music from the album at Washington, DC’s legendary Blues Alley on November 9. “I wanted to blend the soul of jazz guitar with the rhythms of funk, R&B, and modern grooves — without losing the improvisation, musicianship, and creativity that define jazz. Every composition reflects my commitment to melody and artistic growth.”
Smith performs guitar, bass, keyboards, and programming throughout the album, joined by keyboardist Dennis Fortune, bassist Jose Juvinao, and drummer Erik Tulissio. Pianist Asaf Finkelstein appears on two tracks, while the four‑piece Heartbeat Brass Band adds fullness and firepower to two selections.
On November 6, Smith will release Velvet Vibe Deluxe Edition, which adds two new songs to the original ten-track album currently under GRAMMY® consideration and marks the project's first physical CD release. The expanded edition further highlights the project's musical range and Smith's evolving artistic direction.
“Velvet Vibe represents more than a collection of songs. It’s my contribution to keeping jazz relevant, evolving, and connected to new generations of listeners.”
Since his 2002 debut Laid Back, Smith has built a 12‑album catalog supported by live performances, international airplay, and global streaming. His music has also been licensed for film and television. Velvet Vibe continues his prolific creative run — five albums in five years — underscoring his momentum as a contemporary jazz guitarist and composer.
Listen to Velvet Vibe at https://ronnysmith.com/for-your-consideration/.
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