Lee Ritenour, an acclaimed American jazz guitarist, began his professional journey at the tender age of sixteen when he recorded with the iconic Mamas and the Papas. His early exposure to the music industry quickly established him as a sought-after session guitarist, earning him the nickname “Captain Fingers”. By his twenties, Ritenour had collaborated with legendary artists such as Lena Horne and Tony Bennett, showcasing his versatility and deep-rooted passion for jazz.
In 1976, Ritenour launched his solo career with the album “First Course”, which exemplified the jazz-funk sound of the era. His subsequent albums, including “Captain Fingers” and “Feel the Night”, further solidified his reputation in the jazz community. Notably, he contributed uncredited rhythm guitar to Pink Floyd’s “The Wall”, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly blend into various musical genres.
As the 1980s unfolded, Ritenour began to incorporate pop elements into his music, achieving commercial success with the hit single “Is It You” from the album “Rit”. His innovative approach to music continued with albums like “Earth Run”, which garnered Grammy nominations, highlighting his exceptional talent and creativity.
Throughout his career, Ritenour has remained a prominent figure in the jazz world, known for his signature sound on the Gibson ES-335 and L5 guitars. His contributions to music extend beyond performance, as he has also produced and composed for various artists, leaving an indelible mark on the jazz genre and inspiring future generations of musicians.
