Robben Ford, born on December 16, 1951, in Woodlake, California, is an acclaimed American blues, jazz, and rock guitarist. Known for his sophisticated playing style and blending of various genres, Ford has had a significant impact on contemporary guitar music and has collaborated with numerous legendary artists.
Robben Ford Career Highlights
1972: Joined the jazz fusion group L.A. Express, led by saxophonist Tom Scott, and toured with Joni Mitchell, contributing to her albums "Miles of Aisles" and "The Hissing of Summer Lawns."
1974: Released his debut solo album "Discovering the Blues," showcasing his blues roots and technical prowess.
1976: Collaborated with George Harrison on his album "Thirty Three & 1/3," marking his entry into high-profile sessions.
1977: Joined the band of jazz legend Miles Davis, contributing to the album "The Complete Miles Davis at Montreux."
1982: Formed the band The Yellowjackets, a contemporary jazz group, and released their debut album, which gained critical acclaim.
1988: Released "Talk to Your Daughter," a successful solo album that featured a mix of blues, rock, and jazz, earning him widespread recognition.
1992: Released the album "Robben Ford & The Blue Line," which included the hit "Start It Up" and solidified his reputation as a leading blues guitarist.
1997: Released "Tiger Walk," an instrumental album that showcased his versatility and featured contributions from top session musicians.
2001: Released "Supernatural," which included collaborations with artists like Michael McDonald and Susan Tedeschi.
2013: Released "Bringing It Back Home," a return to his blues roots with a contemporary twist.
2021: Released "Pure," an album that received critical acclaim for its blend of blues, jazz, and rock influences.
Robben Ford Band - Members and Collaborations
Robben Ford has played with various bands and collaborated with numerous musicians throughout his career.
L.A. Express: A jazz fusion group that included Tom Scott, Max Bennett, and John Guerin.
The Yellowjackets: A contemporary jazz band formed by Ford, Russell Ferrante, Jimmy Haslip, and Ricky Lawson.
Collaborated with artists such as Miles Davis, Joni Mitchell, George Harrison, and Michael McDonald.
Frequent collaborations with blues artists like Susan Tedeschi and blues-rock bands such as Gov't Mule.
Robben Ford Grammy Awards
Although Robben Ford has not won a Grammy Award, a disgrace, he has received several nominations, highlighting his contributions to the music industry.
Nominated for Best Contemporary Jazz Performance for "Tiger Walk" in 1997.
Nominated for Best Contemporary Blues Album for "Bringing It Back Home" in 2013.
3 Most Famous Robben Ford Songs
- "Talk to Your Daughter"
- "Start It Up"
- "Chevrolet"
Robben Ford Gossip/Trivia
Robben Ford has maintained a relatively low-profile personal life, avoiding major scandals and controversies.
Known for his deep understanding of music theory and improvisation, Ford has conducted numerous guitar clinics and workshops worldwide, influencing aspiring musicians.
Ford's versatility as a guitarist has allowed him to seamlessly transition between genres, earning him a reputation as one of the most adaptable guitarists in the industry.
He has been featured in various guitar magazines and instructional videos, sharing his techniques and insights with fans and fellow musicians.
Despite his success, Ford remains dedicated to his craft, constantly exploring new musical directions and pushing the boundaries of his playing style.
Robben Ford ratings
Songs: Freedom, Cannonball Shuffle, Talk to Your Daughter
Gear: Fender Telecaster Dumble amplifier