Rick Braun

Richard Carl Braun was born on July 6, 1955, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. His early musical influences came from his mother, a self-taught pianist and banjoist. He began playing drums in high school, eventually transitioning to the trumpet, following his brother’s lead. Braun pursued formal music education at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, in the 1970s. During this period, he became a member of Auracle, a jazz-fusion band that collaborated with producer Teo Macero. He also co-produced the band’s second album, “City Slickers,” showcasing his early production skills.

In the 1980s, Braun ventured into pop music, releasing a solo album in Japan and songwriting for Lorimar. He co-wrote “Here with Me” for REO Speedwagon, which achieved a top twenty hit status, and composed the theme for Lorimar’s NBC show “Midnight Caller.” He subsequently worked as a studio musician and touring member for various artists, including Crowded House, Natalie Cole, Glenn Frey, Tom Petty, Sade, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner, and War. By 1992, he released his debut solo album, “Intimate Secrets” (Mesa), followed by “Night Walk” and “Christmas Present” in 1994. His growing popularity led him to pursue a full-time solo career, releasing “Beat Street” in 1995.

Braun’s career has been marked by consistent chart success in the smooth jazz genre. His albums, such as “Kisses in the Rain,” “R n R,” and “Can You Feel It,” have reached number one on various jazz charts. “All It Takes” peaked at number two, and his vocal album “Sings with Strings” reached number nine on the Traditional Jazz Albums chart in 2011. He is a member of BWB alongside saxophonist Kirk Whalum and guitarist Norman Brown, and he co-founded ARTizen Music Group (now Artistry Music) with saxophonist Richard Elliot in 2005. Braun has been recognized for his contributions to jazz, being named “Artist of the Year” twice by Gavin Report.