Rick Braun
Rick Braun, born in Pennsylvania, is a successful jazz trumpet phenomenon, composer/arranger, producer and entrepreneur. Before embarking on a solo career, Braun got his start by playing in several bands, including guitarist Jeff Golub’s Avenue Blue. Braun also plays in the band BWB, with saxophonist Kirk Whalum and guitarist Norman Brown. In 1993 he was offered a record deal in L.A with his jazz-fusion band Auracle. He directed his focus to contemporary jazz, issuing his solo debut Intimate Secrets. After touring with Sade, he returned in 1994 with Night Walk. With 1995’s Beat Street, Braun’s popularity continued to snowball, with 1996’s smash Body & Soul launching the NAC chart-topper Notorious. He is a two-time winner of the Gavin Report’s “Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year” award. He collaborated with Boney James on the 2000 release Shake It Up. The album Kisses in the Rain followed a year later. His talent led him to performing and recording with the best, including Rod Stewart, Tina Turner, Natalie Cole, Sade, Tom Petty, War, Glen Frey and Crowded House. His latest Yours Truly is another milestone in an illustrious and fulfilling career. In 2005 he co-founded the record label ARTizen Music Group with saxophonist Richard Elliot.
