Mr. Jerry Byrd
| A craftsman, who concludes that his art is a blessing from the creator, Jazz Guitarist, Mr. Jerry Byrd seeks to offer his listeners a look at the guitar from the inside out. His musical renderings allow the listener an opportunity to experience, first-hand, the music from where it originates - the soul of Jerry Byrd.
As a youth in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Byrd immersed himself in the pursuit of acoustic guitar perfection. At the age of 16, and during his time at Westinghouse High School, Byrd became an integral part of the school orchestra. As he progressed into adulthood, Jerry was drawn to participate in local jam sessions with his long-time comrade George Benson. Jerry's initiation as a career musician began when his brother, Wendell (who was then an accomplished organist), formed a unit which they called "The Byrd Brothers". The Byrd Brothers were often seen at a then popular venue in Pittsburgh called "The Hurricane". The trio's popularity grew and the group began performing and touring extensively through parts of upstate New York. It was during their touring that Jerry encountered legendary saxophonist, Rashan Roland Kirk. The two musicians befriended and began a 5 month long engagement at the historic Ellis Hotel in Pittsburgh - where the "greats" were known to be in attendance on a regular basis. During the early 1960's, Mr. Byrd rekindled the fire of the popular Byrd Brothers group. Jerry was then a principal part of the six-year touring stint of the organ-based "Gene Ludwig Trio". Mr. Byrd also recorded a total of fifteen projects with the Ludwig Trio, and his association with the trio exposed him to jazz greats such as saxophonist, Lou Donaldson, Etta Jones, Earnestine Anderson and the legendary Big Mae Belle. In 1967, Jerry's career reached a milestone. He encountered and became a lifelong friend of legendary guitarist, Wes Montgomery (the guitar he performed with for many years was given to him by the late Mr. Montgomery; but Jerry eventually surrendered it to George Benson. The guitar he now performs with and cherishes was given to him by George Benson!). To this day, Jerry considers Mr. Montgomery a mentor and credits him for his famous style of playing. During his time on the road in 1968, Jerry was included in a three-year tour of the United States and Scandinavia with world-renowned organist, Jack McDuff. Jerry's work with Mr. McDuff was consummated with two recordings on Cadet Records in Chicago (ironically, the same place where McDuff switched from piano to the organ work he is reknowned for). Jerry launched his solo career in 1971 with the formation of the famed "Jerry Byrd Quartet"; this unit remained in tact until Jerry met with legendary saxophonist, Sonny Stitt in 1978. During his time with Sonny Stitt, Jerry performed at classic venues in Atlanta such as Max's (in the Omni Hotel), Smugglers Inn, Ivey's South and Scandals. Jerry was a part of two more recording dates with Circle Records recording artist Tommy Stewart and vocalist, Margaret Whiting in 1980. While living in Atlanta in 1981, Jerry was asked to tour with saxophonist Sam Rivers. The Sam Rivers tour would take Jerry to exotic ports of call such as Rome, Paris, and Canada. Jerry's stellar career took and even greater turn in 1983 when he became the featured guitarist for the legendary pianist/vocalist, Mr. Freddy Cole (brother of famed vocalist/pianist, Nat "King" Cole). The two have worked together extensively since that time and continue to perform in venues worldwide. While in Atlanta, Mr. Cole's group, which included Mr. Byrd, was part of the historic grand opening of the Ritz Carlton in Buckhead (Atlanta, GA.); the group remained there to the delight of Jazz fans, for two years running. The list of legendary jazz architects with whom Jerry has performed and recorded with over the years seems endless. Most noted are his performances with trumpet icon, Dizzy Gillespie, organist, Lonnie Smith, "Slide" Hampton, and Frank Foster. A consummate artist, who is always in pursuit of the next great performance, Mr. Byrd also delights in the visual arts. One of Jerry's most treasured possessions is a charcoal sketch by famed vocalist, Tony Bennett. Jerry Byrd is an ambrosial and compassionate man and musician, always willing to lend a light word of wisdom, or reflect on his associations with some of the icons in jazz. Always impeccably dressed, imparting a warm-hearted smile, Jerry offers the listener an intimate and spirited portrayal of what Jazz was, Jazz is, and will be in the new millennium. Luxuriate in the warmth and wealth of jazz guitar renderings by Mr. Jerry Byrd. |
| Mr. Byrd's 1999 Itinerary: |
