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Larry CoryellAmerican jazz fusion guitarist
Date of Birth: 02.04.1943
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Influences
- New York Breakthrough
- The Eleventh House and Solo Career
- The Guitar Trio
- Legacy and Impact
Early Life and Influences
Larry Coryell was born in Galveston, Texas and began his musical journey at a young age, experimenting with various instruments before settling on the guitar. During his adolescence, he played in local bands while attending Richland High School in Washington. Coryell's musical influences included Chet Atkins, Chuck Berry, and Wes Montgomery.
New York Breakthrough
In 1965, Coryell moved to New York City, where his talent was recognized and he joined Chico Hamilton's quintet, replacing Gabor Szabo. In 1967, he became a member of the Gary Burton Quartet, with whom he recorded four albums in the late 1960s. Coryell's reputation as a sideman grew during this period, collaborating with notable artists such as Jack Bruce, Jimmy Webb, Charles Mingus, Billy Cobham, and Chick Corea.
The Eleventh House and Solo Career
In 1973, Coryell formed his own group, The Eleventh House, which became renowned as one of the most prominent fusion bands of all time. The band disbanded in 1976, leading Coryell to embark on a prolific solo career. Throughout the 1970s, he collaborated with legendary guitarists such as Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and Al Di Meola.
The Guitar Trio
In 1979, Coryell formed The Guitar Trio with fellow jazz fusion guitarist John McLaughlin and flamenco virtuoso Paco De Lucia. The trio toured extensively in Europe, and the video recording of one of their concerts gained widespread acclaim.
Legacy and Impact
Today, Coryell is widely recognized as a jazz fusion icon. He continues to perform and appears at major festivals worldwide. His autobiography, "Improvising: My Life in Music," was published in 2007. Coryell also teaches at the University of Washington. The Cort guitar company produces a signature Larry Coryell guitar line.
