Marcus Miller Jazz musician Date of Birth: 14.06.1959 Country: USA

Biography of Marcus Miller

Marcus Miller is a jazz musician, composer, and producer. He was born on June 14, 1959, in Brooklyn and grew up on Long Island, New York. Coming from a musical family, Marcus was heavily influenced by his father, who was a jazz enthusiast and church organist. At a young age, Marcus developed a passion for rhythm and blues, and at the age of 10, he picked up the clarinet. He later added piano and bass to his musical arsenal.

At the age of 15, Marcus landed his first professional engagement with the Harlem River Drive Orchestra at the New York Jazz Club. It was through this jazz community that Marcus was introduced to Kenny Washington, a renowned drummer, and Miles Davis, who became his first idol. Marcus also had the opportunity to play with Winton Kelly, his cousin, who was a member of Davis' band. At 16, Marcus performed with flutist Bobby Humphrey and keyboardist Lonnie Liston Smith.

For the next few years, Marcus worked as a studio musician in New York, participating in sessions with artists such as Aretha Franklin, Roberta Flack, Bob James, David Sanborn, and others. He joined Miles Davis' band in 1980 and worked under the legendary jazz musician's guidance for two years. Reflecting on his time with Davis, Marcus said, "He never focused my attention on any specific details that would help me develop my style, but I learned from him that I needed to be honest about who I am and what I do. Those who follow this program don't have any problems."

While still working with Davis, Miller released his debut album, "Suddenly," on Warner Bros. Records. In 1986, he produced Davis' album "Tutu," followed by his second album, "Marcus Miller." He also joined the electro-funk-rock group "The Jamaica Boys" with drummer Lenny White. In 1991, Miller received a Grammy for Best Rhythm & Blues Song for his collaboration with Teddy Vann and Luther Vandross on "Power of Love/Love Power." After the release of "The Sun Don't Lie" in 1993, Miller returned to live performances.

In 1994, Marcus dedicated most of his time to creating "Tales," a remarkable and provocative work that showcased the development of black music over the past three decades. With "Tales," Miller recreated a panorama of black music, achieving brilliant and thought-provoking results.

Throughout the 1990s and beyond, Miller remained one of the most sought-after concert and session bassists, working across various genres from jazz to pop-R&B with artists like Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey. He became increasingly involved in music production and continued to release solo works, often exploring a jazz-rock fusion style.

Marcus Miller's contribution to the music industry as a musician, composer, and producer is widely recognized and celebrated. His ability to blend different styles and genres has made him a unique and influential figure in the world of jazz and beyond.