Fourplay is a contemporary jazz quartet formed in 1991, known for blending jazz with elements of R&B, pop, and funk. The group’s sophisticated sound and exceptional musicianship have earned them critical acclaim and a loyal fan base worldwide.
Fourplay Career Highlights
1991: Formed by Bob James (keyboards), Lee Ritenour (guitar), Nathan East (bass, vocals), and Harvey Mason (drums). Released their debut album Fourplay, which went to No. 1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart.
1995: Released Elixir, featuring tracks like "Dream Come True," which solidified their smooth jazz dominance.
1997: Lee Ritenour left the group, replaced by guitarist Larry Carlton, leading to a new era of creativity with albums like The Best of Fourplay.
2010: Larry Carlton departed and was replaced by Chuck Loeb, bringing a fresh sound to the group with albums such as Let’s Touch the Sky.
2019: Released their final album Silver, marking 25 years of exceptional music before the group decided to disband.
Fourplay Band
Original Members:
- Bob James (keyboards)
- Lee Ritenour (guitar)
- Nathan East (bass, vocals)
- Harvey Mason (drums)
Later Members:
- Larry Carlton (guitar, 1997–2010)
- Chuck Loeb (guitar, 2010–2017)
Fourplay Awards
Multiple Grammy nominations, including Best Contemporary Jazz Album (Fourplay and Between the Sheets).
Several No. 1 Billboard Contemporary Jazz albums.
1994: NAACP Image Award nomination for their contribution to jazz and pop music.
3 Most Famous Fourplay Songs
- Bali Run
- Between the Sheets
- Chant
Fourplay Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
Known for their remarkable consistency, Fourplay maintained chart success through multiple lineup changes, a rarity in the music industry.
Nathan East’s vocals on "Between the Sheets" paid homage to The Isley Brothers’ original hit, blending classic R&B with the group’s jazz sensibilities.
Despite disbanding in 2019, their music continues to influence contemporary jazz and smooth jazz artists worldwide.
Fourplay ratings
