G. E. Smith is an American guitarist and songwriter known for his versatile career as a lead guitarist for Hall & Oates, bandleader for Saturday Night Live, and musical director for acclaimed artists and events. After establishing himself in The Scratch Band in the early 1970s, G.
During this period, Smith also released his solo album, In the World, in 1981. Upon the hiatus of Hall & Oates in 1985, Smith was appointed as the bandleader and co-musical director for the renowned Saturday Night Live Band, a pivotal role he maintained for a decade until 1995. His tenure at SNL was recognized with an Emmy Award in 2000 for the Saturday Night Live: The 25th Anniversary Special. Concurrently, Smith broadened his collaborations, becoming the initial lead guitarist for Bob Dylan’s Never Ending Tour band from 1988 to 1990, and subsequently serving as musical director for Dylan’s 30th Anniversary Concert Celebration in 1992.
His most recent album, Stony Hill, a collaboration with Leroy Bell, was released in 2020. G. E. Smith continues to be a highly sought-after collaborator and musical director, known for his instrumental prowess and extensive contributions to iconic projects.