Richard Franklin
Reclusive guitarist and composer
Richard Franklin is one of the best-kept secrets of the smooth jazz world.
His early musical background was in classic guitar - as a student of
Carlos Barbosa-Lima and Sophocles Papas, his lineage goes directly back to
the great Andres Segovia. A very successful classic guitarist, he
performed extensively in recital and with orchestras; he also won a number
of performance competitions. The influence of the classic style is evident
in his jazz work, particularly the emphasis on tonal warmth and
expressivity.
Through the mid-1980's, Richard
worked as a performing and studio guitarist (as well as an acclaimed
teacher), until he withdrew from the public music scene for personal
reasons. Since then, his musical activity has focused on composition and
studio production. He is now introducing the fruits of that work.
Fans of smooth jazz will find the
music of Richard Franklin to be readily accessible, even on the first
hearing, as it features lush harmonies, attractive melodies, and subtle
grooves. While firmly rooted in jazz and pop traditions, Richard Franklin
does not sound like anyone else. Repeated listening will be rewarded with
an appreciation of the care, skill and subtlety with which this material
is crafted and performed. The music is positive, up-beat, and always very
satisfying.
CD's by Richard Franklin:
