John Scofield American jazz rock musician, guitarist, composer Date of Birth: 26.12.1951 Country: USA

1. Biography of John Scofield
2. Early Years and Education
3. Breakthrough and Collaborations
4. Formation of His Own Group
5. Collaboration with Miles Davis
6. Later Career
7. Selected Discography

Biography of John Scofield

John Scofield is an American jazz-rock musician, guitarist, and composer. Born on December 26, 1951, in Dayton, Ohio, he developed a passion for guitar at a young age, drawing inspiration from Chuck Berry, Albert King, and B.B. King.

Early Years and Education

During his teenage years, Scofield played rock and roll, urban blues, and rhythm and blues. He attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston from 1970 to 1973, where he studied under Gary Burton and Mick Goodrick.

Breakthrough and Collaborations

A pivotal moment in Scofield's musical career came in 1974 when he participated in a concert at Carnegie Hall on the recommendation of Mick Goodrick. He played in a group led by Gerry Mulligan and Chet Baker, which led to subsequent performances and recordings with jazz-rock groups such as George Duke and Billy Cobham. Over the years, Scofield also played and recorded with notable musicians such as Charlie Mingus, Jay McShann, Ron Carter, and Lee Konitz.

Formation of His Own Group

In 1977, Scofield formed his own group, which included Richie Beirach, George Mraz, and Joe LaBarbera. The group toured Europe, and Scofield released his first album as a bandleader, "John Scofield Live." In 1978, he formed another noteworthy lineup with Steve Swallow and Adam Nussbaum, resulting in three successful and influential albums.

Collaboration with Miles Davis

The most significant turning point in Scofield's career occurred in 1982 when he joined Miles Davis' group. Until Mike Stern's departure in 1983, there were two guitarists in the band. Scofield recorded and toured internationally with Davis, contributing to several projects.

Later Career

Since his collaboration with Davis, Scofield has worked on various projects as both a leader and a guest artist. His work showcases a diverse range of styles, including a notable blend of bop, funk, blues, and country on both electric and acoustic guitar. He has collaborated with musicians such as Eddie Harris, Pat Metheny, Joe Lovano, Idris Muhammad, Bill Frisell, and Peter Erskine.

Selected Discography

- "A Go Go" (with Medeski Martin & Wood, Verve, 1997)
- "Quiet" (orchestral album featuring Scofield on acoustic guitar, Verve, 1996)
- "Groove Elation" (Blue Note, 1994)
- "Hand Jive" (with Eddie Harris, Blue Note, 1993)
- "Blue Note" (1993)
- "Grace Under Pressure" (Blue Note, 1991)
- "Time On My Hands" (Blue Note, 1990)
- "Still Warm" (Gramavision, 1985)
- "Shinola" (enja, 1981)
- "Rough House" (enja, 1978)
- "John Scofield Live" (enja, 1977)